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When compared to other regions of the United States, Sacramento, CA, typically has warm and dry winters. Daytime highs are usually in the 50 °F to 60 °F temperature range, with cooler days occurring sporadically. Lows in the 30 °F and 40 °F temperature ranges are common at night. Sacramento seldom experiences snow; however, frost and mild freezing conditions are somewhat common. Winter precipitation is heavier than summer precipitation, adding to the Mediterranean climate of the area. What does all of this mean? It means a reliable heating system is important for your comfort throughout the year. Some key steps can make your heating system work better and more efficiently.
1. Service on a Regular Basis
The foundation of a well-operating heating system is regular professional service. To keep everything running well, have a professional check everything out once a year. In addition to maximizing efficiency and extending the lifetime of the system, this also minimizes the likelihood of malfunctions.
2. Seal Air Leaks to Prevent Air Loss
Houses lose a lot of conditioned air when they have air leaks. The most common places to find leaks are around doors, windows and other openings. These leaks turn into drafts, causing hot and cold spots throughout the home. This ineffective heating puts extra wear and tear on the heating system. Over time, the extra wear and tear causes expensive repairs and replacements of parts. One of the easiest ways to get rid of air leaks is by using caulk or weather stripping to seal up gaps and holes. This can also lessen the strain on your heating system by keeping warm air inside and cold air outside.
3. Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly
Dirty air filters are another common cause of extreme wear and tear on a heating system. Every month, inspect your filters and clean or replace them if they are dirty. In addition to enhancing air quality, this will make your system run more efficiently, resulting in reduced energy use and lower heating bills. A clean filter also promotes cleaner indoor air. This is particularly valuable to those with allergies and respiratory conditions.
4. Insulate the Attics and Walls
Having enough insulation is key to keeping the temperature inside at a pleasant level. When was the last time you checked the insulation in your attics and walls? If the answer is never, it’s time for an inspection. You can save a considerable amount of money on heating costs by adding more insulation to key parts of the home that experience extreme temperatures.
5. Upgrade the Doors and Windows
Heat escapes through windows and doors that are old or inefficient. It’s smart to go for more insulated, energy-efficient styles if you can. In addition to improving your home’s insulation, this upgrade will also give your living areas a more stylish look.
6. Use Thermal Window Coverings
Improve heating efficiency using a variety of thermal window coverings. Thermal blinds, cellular shades and insulating drapes are some of your options. Rather than letting heat escape through the windows, these covers keep conditioned air inside.
Cellular blinds with honeycomb architecture and multi-layer insulating drapes both provide good insulation. Thermal blinds made of reflective materials can cut down on heat loss even further.
7. Install a Smart Thermostat
Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to maximize your heating system’s efficiency potential. New models allow you to use your smartphone to control your heating system from any location at any time. Establish automated temperature adjustments that fit your lifestyle and heating preferences. Use the device’s learning capabilities to determine ways to save money. These features make the heating system more efficient, which improves comfort and lowers energy usage.
8. Schedule Ductwork Cleaning
Efficient heat distribution requires ducts that are clean. The accumulation of dust and debris in ducts over time reduces system performance by obstructing airflow. To improve the air quality inside your home and the performance of your heating system, get your ducts cleaned by a professional once every two years. This time frame may be more frequent if you have pets.
9. Consider a Heat Recovery System
Instead of letting heat go to waste, heat recovery systems collect it and put it to use again. These systems have the ability to preserve heat while exchanging stale interior air for fresh outside air. In the end, they improve the house’s efficiency and environmental friendliness by reusing and recycling heat.
10. Optimize Comfort With Heating Under Your Floors
Under-the-floor heating provides a luxurious heating option. This type of setup makes it possible to avoid using radiators or vents, which opens up additional options for interior design. With under-floor heating, you can maximize comfort while simultaneously reducing the strain on your heating system, which promotes efficiency.
11. Install an Energy-Efficient Water Heater
To achieve the best possible heat transmission in a home, a high-efficiency water heater is an absolute must. Water heaters that are energy efficient not only reduce utility bills but can also improve an integrated system’s energy efficiency. For these setups, a high-efficiency water heater is a greener and cheaper option for heating a home.
12. Add Moisture to the Air
The winter months are the most critical for maintaining proper indoor humidity levels. To make a cooler house seem cozier, try using a humidifier to disperse some moisture into the air. This makes the air seem and feel warmer, making it easier to reduce the thermostat without compromising warmth. A whole-house unit can be professionally installed as part of your HVAC system.
13. Consider a Heat Pump
Installing a heat pump is a great way for Sacramento homeowners to save money on heating costs. When winters are mild, a heat pump can double as an air conditioner by drawing heat from the outside air. It can also function in the summer, allowing you to relax all year round. Instead of burning fuel, heat pumps use electricity, making them environmentally beneficial as well. Their energy-efficient technology lowers the cost of utilities and produces a smaller carbon footprint. With the modest temperature variations typical of Sacramento, heat pumps provide a long-term solution that homeowners can rely on. These pumps are not only functional but also adaptable, energy-efficient and cost-effective.
14. Get Repairs Done Quickly
Any time you notice an issue with your heating system, call a licensed repairman right away. Faulty thermostats and pilot lights can both cause heaters to malfunction. Other common causes of heater problems include dirty filters, broken ignition systems and damaged thermocouples. Don’t ever attempt to fix these problems yourself. Licensed technicians have the tools and expertise to safely identify and fix whatever part is broken. Professional repairs are vital to preserving a heater’s energy efficiency and lifespan.
Atticman Heating and Air Conditioning, Insulation knows all about taking care of heaters. We work on electric and gas furnaces as well as heat pumps and water heaters. We also specialize in AC maintenance, mini-split systems, electrification and insulation. Give us a call today to learn more about making your Sacramento home’s heating system work more efficiently.
