It’s that time of the year again when we are briefly forced to run our heaters for a couple of months before we forget that we even have them for the rest of the year. As you turn them on for the first time you’ll quickly realize just how long you haven’t turned it on as the smell of burning dust spreads through your home. Open your windows for a brief period of time and you should get rid of that smell very quickly. Even better, be prepared and run your heater in advance of a cold snap. This way you can avoid having to turn it on for the first time just before you and your family prepare for bedtime and be forced to endure the smell as you fall asleep.
Now, heating bills can add a significant punch to your budget. There are a few things that you can do to avoid cardiac arrest when you receive your next bill. You don’t need to turn your home into an inferno. Turn your thermostat to the lowest and most comfortable temperature that you can bear. This move will definitely help reduce your bill. Dress warmer while you are at home: put on socks and long sleeved shirts, sleep under warmer blankets, etc. Turn that heater off when you are not at home. If you’re busy or tend to forget to monitor your thermostat, get a programmable one – these have a proven track record of helping people reduce their energy bills. There are many affordable options out there. In addition, pay attention to your water heater and reduce the temperature on its thermostat to see even more savings on your energy bill. Close doors and windows to avoid heat loss. Covering windows with curtains and blinds also helps retain heat in your home. Annually inspect your home for sources of air leaks and address them promptly.
And lastly, look for other sources of heat in your home and take advantage of them. Did you use that oven to make that delicious family dinner tonight? When you’re done cooking, leave the oven door open to let some of that heat into your kitchen. Now if you have small children or someone else who might be tempted to explore the open oven, you may want to look for other sources of heat. Also if you leave that stove door open, make sure your stove is fitted with anti-tipping device. Taking a hot shower? Leave the door to the bathroom open and allow some of that heat and steam to spread to other parts of your home.
As always, thanks for reading,
Bryan
Bryan Hayes, along with his brother Todd, is a co-owner of a Sanibel Air Conditioning company on Sanibel, FL. They also own and operate an island-based electrical service company Sanctuary Island Electric, Inc. Bryan can be reached at Bryan@Sanibelair.com
