How much do you really know about the heating system in your home? Oftentimes, most homeowners don’t know as much as they should which is why they are paying so much in monthly bills. Everyone who owns a home should at least know the basics of their heating system.
Heating Facts
- Space heating accounts for roughly 45 percent of monthly energy bills; your largest energy expense.
- Natural gas heating systems are used in roughly 57 percent of American homes; the most common heating fuel.
- Between 2007 and 2012, homeowners who heated their homes using heating oil spent more than double compared to those who used natural gas. Natural gas offers generally lower prices and is not as volatile as oil.
Components of a Heating System
- The Heat Source provides the warm air (or water) to heat the house via the distribution system. The most common heat sources are furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps.
- The Heat Distribution System directs the warm air (or water) throughout the home. The most common heat distribution systems are forced air systems and radiators.
- The Control System will allow the user to regulate the amount of heat that is distributed throughout the house. The most common control systems are thermostats.
Tips to Lower Heating Bills
- Keep curtains open to allow natural sunlight to spill into the rooms. However, be sure to close them when the sun goes down to keep the heat away from the cold windows.
- Add weatherstripping and caulking around the interior and exterior of your windows. This will prevent drafty windows from stealing your heat and raising your bills
- Inspect your ductwork of any cracks, holes, and air leaks. Repair any and make sure the ductwork is sealed and seamless. Consider also adding insulation to help retain the heat within the ducts.
When it comes to home heating there are a few basic things you should know to help you understand how it works and how to save money on your bills. When you need your heating system repaired or replaced, contact Tri-City Appliance, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (203) 303-5700.