3 Energy-Saving Ways to Keep Warm Indoors

When winter temperatures in South Florida take a nose dive, nothing enhances your indoor comfort like a well-operating heating system. Higher energy expenses, however, can leave you dreading the arrival of your monthly utility bills. The secret to keeping energy costs manageable lies in finding ways to manage heater performance. Here are three affordable ways to keep warm, save energy and make your Port St. Lucie home a more comfortable place.

Use Window Coverings

Keeping drapes drawn during cold weather can reduce heat loss by around 10 percent. You can double or even triple those energy savings, however, by implementing the following strategies:

• Hang draperies over blinds, shades or other window coverings to increase insulation.
• Size curtains so that they fit snugly against the windowsill and go all the way to the floor.
• Top the window treatment with a cornice to help to keep warm air from escaping.
• Use Velcro or magnetic tape to fix draperies to the walls.

Seal Air Leaks

Among the many sneaky ways that homes lose heat, few impact your comfort like persistent air leaks. Any crack, hole or gap in your home’s exterior lets the cold air inside. Fortunately, sealing the leaks is relatively easy. Start by using caulk and weatherstripping to address drafty doors and windows. A can of spray foam insulation comes in handy for plugging gaps around fixtures like plumbing pipes, gas lines and vents.

Change the Air Filter

Managing air flow is critical when it comes to your heating system too. Don’t let a dirty or clogged filter slow down the movement of warm air through your home. Check it every month and replace the filter as soon as it is dirty. Clean air filters protect the equipment from dust and debris and improve heater performance.

From professional tuneups to new heating system installations, Preferred Air Conditioning & Mechanical, LLC is dedicated to improving your winter comfort. Explore our heating services for additional solutions. To speak directly with an HVAC specialist, call our Palm Beach location at (561) 202-1422 or our Port St. Lucie office at (772) 905-3358.

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