The weather around Long Beach has been pretty nice lately. Lots of sunlight can make you forget that temperatures are going to take a big dip come sunset. And when things get cold you need to be able to enjoy a warm home courtesy of your heating system. But have your energy bills made you think twice about turning that heater on lately? If so, we want to help.
Poor energy efficiency is often a sign of a problem with your Long Beach, CA heating system–but there are other factors that can help or hinder your comfort too. Use the tips below to make sure you get the best efficiency from your heater and your home to kick off the new year.
5 Ways to Improve Your Energy Efficiency When Using Your Heater
If you incorporate these tips into your regular day-to-day life, you can improve your energy efficiency without sacrificing your comfort. No one should have to choose between staying warm and paying their bills!
- Check for obstructions in front of vents or air handlers. It may not seem like it can have a big impact, but obstructions like decor, furniture, or plants that are in front of your vents or air handlers can cause a lot of trouble for your heater. These obstructions can make it harder for your heater to keep the home warm, leading to your system using more energy and working harder to try to get the job done.
- Make sure doors and windows are closed and sealed. We know a fresh breeze can be pleasant but it isn’t going to help your heater’s efficiency if you are trying to heat your home with the doors or windows open. Make sure doors and windows are closed when you run the heater. Likewise, check for air leaks around doors and windows that can make it harder to keep the house warm.
- Keep your temperature settings reasonable. We know that on a cold night it can feel like the best option is to drive up the temperature on your thermostat as high as possible. This won’t heat your home any faster though but it will drive up your energy bills! Instead, keep your demands on your heater reasonable–the Department of Energy advises a maximum of 68°F during the day.
- Use what you have on hand to reduce your demand on your heater. Reducing your demand on your heater can help you enjoy better comfort at a lower cost. For example, we live in “sunny Southern California” so when the sun is out, open the blinds and curtains. That sunlight will help the home feel warmer for longer which will lower your demand on your heater. Additionally, it is a great time to break out the sweaters and slippers!
- Schedule maintenance and repairs in a timely manner. Last but not least, make sure to schedule maintenance for your heater each year to avoid big spikes in energy use. Likewise, schedule repairs in a timely manner when your system starts to act up as the sooner the issue is taken care of the better it will be for your comfort and your bills.
Schedule your heating maintenance, repairs, and other services with Greenleaf Heating & Cooling. Serving Southern California since 1954