Winter Heating Tips

With the winter fast approaching, and energy costs still on the rise, Kalamazoo area residents are looking for ways to stay warm this winter without breaking the bank. Finding ways to scale back your heating not only saves money, but it is better for the environment as using less heat is less of a draw on our energy resources.

So, this winter, how exactly do you use less heat, but stay just as warm? Here are a few tips:

Don’t Use Unnecessary Heat
Don’t unnecessarily heat rooms that you don’t use often, such as guest rooms. If possible, turn back thermostats in those rooms, or keep the door closed to prevent heat drifting in.
Additionally, if you tend to be gone for long stretches during the day, scale your thermostat back a little before you leave. Then return it to normal as soon as you get home. Be sure not to turn your thermostat higher than your desired temperature in an effort to heat the house faster when you return. This doesn’t heat your home any faster, but makes your furnace work harder, and possibly use more energy than needed.

Wash Clothes in Cold Water When Possible
Not all clothes need to be washed in warm or hot water, but it’s easy to leave the dial set as such. Check clothing tags for clothes that can be machine washed cold, and change your dial accordingly.

Keep Your Chimney Flue Closed When Not In Use
An open flue is like leaving a window open. The hot air escapes right out the chimney. Be sure to keep this closed when you are not using your fireplace.

Take Advantage of the Sun’s Natural Warmth
Open the shades and blinds of south facing windows on sunny days. Additionally, close them at night to reduce the chill from cold or frosty windows.

Check Your House for Energy Leaks
Look and feel around doors and windows for drafts, leaks or holes. Use weather stripping, caulk, or door sweeps to prevent heat loss this winter.

Cut Your Shower Time
Hot water can be a major influence on your energy expenditures, especially in big families. Ask everyone in your family to cut back on their hot shower time by a few minutes. Shorter hot showers can save up to 33% of your hot water heating costs.