Heating Tips

Boiler

* Keep your boiler clean, lubricated and properly adjusted by scheduling your annual maintenance. If your boiler is working at peak efficiency it will use less energy and cost less to operate.

* Clean or replace the air filters every 1-2 months on a warm air system. A dirty filter reduces the airflow and forces the furnace to run longer to heat your home.

* Consider upgrading your heating equipment and you can improve your efficiency up to 30%! Any system over 10 years old may be eligible to be upgraded to provide more efficiency and cost effectiveness. That’s money in your pocket. Contact us for more information.

Thermostat

* Lower your thermostat by 5 - 10 degrees Fahrenheit while you're sleeping at night and when no one is at home.

* Install an ENERGY STAR programmable thermostat. You can save 2% on your heating bill for every 1 degree Celsius (2 degrees Fahrenheit) you turn down your thermostat. With an ENERGY STAR programmable thermostat to consistently lower your heat when you don't need it, you will save money.

Weather-stripping

* Weather-stripping provides a barrier between the fixed and movable sections of doors and windows. Apply weather-stripping to operable windows, exterior doors, garage doors, and doors that lead to the attic.

Windows, doorframes, sills and joints

* Apply a sealant or caulk around windows, doorframes, sills and joints. On a windy day feel for leaks or use incense sticks to help identify leaks around windows, electrical outlets, vents and exterior doors.

* Use plastic window covers to help prevent heat loss.

* Keep return air grills and heating vents clear of furniture, rugs and drapes, so there is no interference with the flow of heat through your home.

Basement

* If you have an unfinished basement or crawlspace, check for
air leaks by looking for spider webs. If there is a web, there is a draft. A large amount of heat is also lost from an un-insulated basement.

* Add insulation to basement walls and ceilings.

Drapes & Blinds

* On sunny days, open south facing drapes and let the sun in, a natural source of heat. If you have large windows that don't receive direct sun, keep the drapes closed.

* Close your drapes and blinds at night.

Pipes, ducts, fans and vents

* Plug gaps around pipes, ducts, fans and vents that go through walls, ceilings and floors from heated to unheated spaces.

Garage

* Turn on the heat just prior to using the garage, save by not heating your garage continuously.

Wood Fireplace

* Close the damper to prevent warm air from escaping through the chimney, and ensure the damper fits properly.

Other

* Sign up for Ranshaw's Even Payment Plan so you can average your bills and avoid peak winter bills.