KEEPING HEATING AND COOLING COSTS DOWN - PART II

Fireplaces can waste a lot of energy, as they pull warm air out of the house through the chimney. Make sure the damper is closed when you’re not using your fireplace. Installing glass doors can also help keep heat in your home when the fireplace is not in use.

Do not lose heated air through exhaust fans. Use them sparingly and turn them off when not in use during colder weather as they pull heated air out of your house.

Exhaust fans can also cause negative pressure inside your home that can lead to back drafts from your fireplace and can cause drafts through the walls, windows and un-insulated outlets in your home.

The best defense against heating problems is to make sure your system is maintained year-round. Having heating equipment serviced by a reputable company at least once a year could reduce your heating bill and prevent costly repairs and replacements in the future.

One of the best home heating tips is to get regular HVAC inspections. Be sure your professional heating tune-up includes: Inspection of the overall safety of gas systems; thermostat calibration; inspection and cleaning of the air handler/blower; filter inspection and cleaning; inspection of wiring and connections; identification of hot and cold spots in the home; and gauging electrical systems for proper amp draw.