TIPS FOR USING YOUR THERMOSTAT AND FURNACE IN WINTER
It’s winter time again in Winnipeg, and that means super cold weather is on its way. And once again, the annual fight over control of the thermostat begins. If your family is like mine, we’re always in a constant battle to raise or lower the thermostat temperature in the winter.
If your house was the starship Enterprise, your thermostat would be the Bridge, where the heating and cooling systems are controlled. Those systems are in play all year round, not just as you alternately press the up or down buttons once the furnace kicks in.
Here are some tips for using your thermostat and furnace in winter:
Cost of raising over thermostat over 20° (68°F)
Getting the right temperature is important. For every degree above 20°C (68°F), heating costs increase by about 5%.
Instead of going to 22°C (71.6°F), and thus having an increase of 10% try using sweaters or blankets to keep warm and cozy.
Humidity control
Ever see condensation on your windows? This is most likely a humidity issue.
You may want more humidity than not, depending on your personal situation. Some thermostats nowadays come with humidty controlling technology. Please note that you would have to install the corresponding humidity-controlling equipment as well.
Check your furnace filter
For the winter months, you should check your filter monthly. If it’s dirty, replace it. Properly maintaining your furnace can reduce energy consumption and save you up to 5% on heating costs.
Program your thermostat
Want to save up to 10% on your heating bill? Who doesn’t, right?
Try programming your thermostat to a lower temperature while you’re at work and while you’re sleeping.
Industry recommendations say that you shouldn’t lower the temperature more than 3°C or 4°C (6°C to 8°C).
Furnace tune up
Replacing your furnace is not a cheap thing to do. Regularly giving your furnace a tune up can extend its life, as well as save you 3% to 10% on your next heating bill.
Heating your home the right way
We all get the chills, and when we do, the thermostat is getting cranked up by like 3 degrees immediately.
Your house will warm up at the same rate, whether you want it to warm up immediately or not.
Add a humidifier to your home
Humidity will help you to keep that thermostat down, and may also add a bit of extra comfort.
If you don’t already have a humidifier, or can’t afford one, you can also try aquariums or plants.
Have questions about your thermostat or furnace?
Give us a shout at Dean’s Plumbing & Heating for a winter furnace tune up!