As the temperature dips in Salt Lake City, keeping your home cozy without skyrocketing energy bills can be a balancing act. But a few strategic home heating hacks can help keep your space warm and wallet happy. Here’s how to stay comfortable this winter without feeling the chill of high costs!
1. Seal Those Drafts
Check for drafts around doors, windows, and even outlets on external walls. Caulking gaps and adding weatherstripping can significantly cut down on heat loss. Another budget-friendly option is installing door draft stoppers – simple but effective!
2. Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats allow you to set heating schedules and make adjustments remotely. Setting the thermostat back by 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day can reduce energy costs by up to 10%. Program it to stay lower during the day and warm up just before you get home.
3. Harness the Power of the Sun
Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your home. Close them when the sun goes down to keep the warmth in and block cold air from seeping in through the glass.
4. Layer Up – Insulate for Comfort
In SLC, where winters can get quite chilly, adding extra insulation to your attic or crawl space can be a game-changer. This is especially effective in older homes around areas like the Avenues or Sugar House, where insulation might not be up to modern standards.
5. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Many Salt Lake City homes have ceiling fans, which are often overlooked as a winter tool. Flip the switch to reverse the fan’s direction (clockwise) on a low setting – this pushes warm air near the ceiling back down into the living space.
6. Zoned Heating
If your home has unused rooms, keep those doors closed and vents closed if they aren’t being used. This allows the heating system to concentrate on the areas you use the most, making heating more efficient.
7. Consider a Humidifier
Dry air feels colder, so adding humidity with a small, portable humidifier makes the air feel warmer. It also helps you breathe better and keeps your skin from drying out – an added benefit for Utah’s dry winters!
8. Service Your Furnace
Regular maintenance can keep your heating system running efficiently. Dirty filters or poorly maintained systems can make your furnace work harder and drive up costs. An annual tune-up and filter change are simple steps that pay off.
Using a combination of these home heating hacks can make a real difference in your winter comfort – and your energy bills! From sealing drafts to leveraging tech, small changes can mean cozy, warm, and budget-friendly winters in Salt Lake City.
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