HOW CAN YOU STAY WARM WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK?
Philadelphia winters are no joke. When you’re feeling the chill, so is your home — especially your heating system.
But, as your heating system works around the clock to battle the cold, there are some steps you can take to make its job easier and take the sting out of your winter utility bill.
Your neighborhood experts at Stallion Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning are right around the corner if you need an emergency heating repair this winter. But before it becomes an emergency, try these DIY tips to help your heating system work smarter instead of harder.
STOP THE DRAFTS
Windows are responsible for 25-30 percent of a home’s heat loss. Keep heat in your home and keep the cold out by caulking or replacing cracked and worn weather-stripping your windows and doors. Use a door snake, either bought or homemade, to stop drafts under doors. Make sure windows are fully closed at the top, which is often forgotten, and the bottom, and add plastic sheeting on the inside of windows if necessary.
INSULATE YOUR HOME
Heat can escape your home through your attic ceiling, and cold air can creep in through your basement or crawlspace. Make sure these are adequately insulated to take a load off your heating system. If you choose this as your DIY project, make sure to wear protective gear like gloves, safety glasses and respiratory protection while working with insulation.
MAINTAIN YOUR SYSTEM
Your heating system can’t work properly if you don’t maintain it. Check your filters and change them according to recommendations. If you have a furnace, vacuum the area around the blower and keep it clear of personal items. Check ducts for any holes or tears and seal those with metal tape. If your heating system is older, check your pilot light regularly to make sure it is burning steady with a blue flame. If not, turn off the fuel and electricity and clean the valves with a small wire before restarting.DIY is great and can save you a ton of money, but scheduling annual tune-ups is another important factor in keeping your heating system going strong through the winter months. Call Stallion today to schedule your inspection, and stay warm this winter.
