If you have a modern heating system and you’ve have been diligent about getting regular maintenance service done, you’re well ahead of most folks when it comes to maintaining heating oil efficiency during the winter.
But you shouldn’t stop there. Why not look beyond your heating oil boiler or heating oil furnace to find other ways to make your home as energy efficient as possible? With that in mind, here are some cost-effective ways to help you conserve energy during the cold winter months in Maine.
Here are steps you can take to stop cold air from getting into your home–and warm air from going out.
If you have a warm-air system (furnace), check your air filter regularly, cleaning or changing it when needed. A clogged, dirty filter robs your furnace of efficiency by making it overwork to keep your home warm. That means higher heating bills and more wear and tear on your furnace. The same principle about air filters applies in the summer if you have a central air conditioning system.
During the cold months, keep curtains and shades open in sun-exposed rooms to absorb all that free solar heat energy during the day. Don’t forget to close your shades and blinds at night so you can retain some of the heat you gained.
An open fireplace damper is like an open window; close it when you are not using your hearth so heated air doesn’t go up your chimney. You should also move any furniture, draperies, or rugs away from your radiators, baseboards, or heating vents. This helps improve air flow and keeps heat freely circulating into rooms.
Investing in a smart programmable thermostat pays off. You’ll save both time and money. When used correctly, a smart thermostat can pay for itself in just a short time. If you choose a Wi-Fi thermostat, you can control your home’s temperature from your smartphone.
In the winter, the optimal setting is 68°F when you’re at home. Program this setting down to the 60°F range when you’re asleep or out of the house. According to the U.S., Department of Energy, you can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for eight hours a day from its normal setting.
If you have any questions or concerns about staying warm in your home this winter, please reach out to your local Maine heating oil company. Read how your supplier can make your heating oil delivery easier and stress-free.