Low temperatures make for increased risk of heating problems

You’ve heard it said, “The best offense is a good defense!” The same is true for your home comfort needs. In order to withstand heating troubles during the cold winter months, make sure you have regular maintenance performed on your home’s heating systems. Take back your comfort, reduce heating costs, and prevent the need for future repairs and replacements! Take our advice in avoiding winter risks!
In addition to regular maintenance, recognize the value of periodic inspections on all heating equipment. F.H. Furr’s comfort consultants can identify existing problems as well as potential issues, not to mention those hot and cold spots in the home where you can take simple, no-cost action to protect against the cold! Here are some simple tricks that can help you avoid heating disasters!

1. Set your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit and your water heater to a standard setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You may be able to save an estimated 5% on your utility bill for each degree you drop within the 60-70 degree range on our thermostat, and there is a potential to save 7-11percent on your hot water heating bill!

2. Take advantage of the sun! By adjusting your blinds to tilt upward towards the ceiling, you can manipulate the sun to shine through your windows and draw heat from the outside. Set your ceiling fans to the reverse setting (low speed), to further circulate heat around the room.

3. Use a humidifier to reintroduce moisture into the home. During the cold winter season, an increased use of your heating system may consequently dry out the inside of your home. Added moisture will facilitate heat circulation since wet air holds heat (not to mention there are some great health benefits by alleviating dry sinuses!)

4. Check your fireplace dampers and make sure they are closed when not in use. If not properly sealed off, you may find it helpful to invest in a glass door in order to protect against an excess of airflow through the leaks. You may also want to caulk air leaks around windows, doors, electrical outlets, vents, pipes, or other areas where inadequate sealing may exist.

5. Turn off exhaust fans when you are not using them. Exhaust fans steal heat from inside the home, as well as a negative build up of pressure indoors which could potentially lead to fireplace back drafts and other areas lacking insulation.

6. Clean or replace your furnace filters. If there is a buildup of dirt or debris in the filter, airflow is significantly restricted. Keeping filters clean and adequately lubricated cuts back on costs accrued by increased heating.

F.H. Furr understands the value of its customers’ time and the importance of customer savings. By taking action in the implementation of these 6 helpful tips, you could potentially be putting money back into your wallet, while optimizing home heating comfort. Defend against the cold and embrace the comfort and savings! Contact us to schedule heating maintenance today.