How To Keep Your Home Warm Without Cranking Up The Heat
As winter approaches in Northridge, California, you might dread those sky-high heating bills. Learning how to keep your home warm without constantly adjusting the thermostat can save you money while maintaining a cozy living space.
Identify the Biggest Heat-Loss Areas in Your Home
You need to know where your home loses the most heat. Identifying these areas helps you tackle the biggest heat-loss problems first:
- Windows and exterior doors
- Walls and ceilings
- Floors and basements
By targeting these areas, you’ll prevent climate-controlled air from escaping.
Six Smart Ways To Trap Heat Inside Your Home
You don’t need to invest in an expensive whole-house renovation to experience better heating. Here are a few tips on how to keep your home warm.
1. Draft-Proofing
Check for drafts around window frames, door thresholds, electrical outlets, pipe entries, and mail slots. You can fix these problem areas by:
- Adding weatherstripping around doors and windows
- Installing door sweeps
- Sealing gaps around pipes and vents
- Placing foam gaskets behind outlet covers on exterior walls
2. Harnessing Natural Heat Sources
Make the most of the sun’s natural warmth by opening curtains on south-facing windows during sunny hours. Close them at sunset to trap the heat inside.
Remember to keep windows clean as dirty glass can reduce solar heat gain by up to 20%. Trim any trees or bushes that block sunlight from reaching your windows.
3. Placing Furniture Smartly
Your furniture arrangement can significantly impact how warm your home feels. Keep sofas and chairs away from external walls and windows. Position them near internal walls where it’s naturally warmer.
Adding thick rugs to bare floors creates an extra layer of insulation and makes it feel warmer underfoot.
4. Maintaining Your Heating System
Regular maintenance helps your heater operate efficiently. Clean or replace filters monthly during the heating season. Don’t block vents or radiators with furniture and ensure proper airflow by keeping at least 18 inches of clear space around heating elements.
5. Utilizing Window Curtains
Curtains are excellent insulators. Thermal curtains can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 25%. Choose heavy fabrics for winter and hang them close to windows to create an air pocket that provides extra insulation.
6. Improving Your Fireplace
A fireplace can be both a blessing and a curse for winter warming. When not in use, close the damper to prevent warm air from escaping. Consider installing a fireplace insert to improve efficiency.
If you rarely use your fireplace, install a chimney balloon to prevent heat loss. Just remember to remove it before lighting any fires!
Contact Kahn Air Conditioning for Superior Heating Services
At Kahn Air Conditioning, we understand how to keep your home warm while maintaining energy efficiency. Since 1961, we’ve helped countless Northridge residents optimize their home heating systems. Our NATE-certified technicians can help you create a warmer, more comfortable home this winter.
Contact Kahn Air Conditioning at (818) 886-2600 to discover expert heating solutions in Northridge, California.