Sources Of Energy Loss When Heating A Space
Heating a space through the winter can create a big energy bill, but it often doesn't have to be as expensive as it is. There are a few sources of heating inefficiency that you might try to address with your heating contractor to reduce energy loss.
The Heating System Isn't in Good Condition
HVAC and furnace maintenance is good for maintaining the lifespan of your heater and also reducing energy loss. For example, changing the filters every year is an easy step to save money. When the filters are clogged, your HVAC system and heater have to work harder to circulate air. Another example is having an HVAC system with leaks. The hot air escapes into your crawl space instead of making it to your living room. Your furnace can also run into many problems that cause it to behave less efficiently, including low combustion pressure and a weak pilot light. A heating inspection each year will help you catch these issues before they lead to heating energy loss.
There's a One-Size-Fits-All Thermostat
Another thing to be aware of is the potential inefficiencies in a one-size-fits-all thermostat. These days, you shouldn't have to adjust the temperature manually. There are many models of thermostat that you can use to set the temperature based on times of the day; you might have it set to come on a half hour before you get home from work, for instance. This way, you don't need to waste energy when you're likely to be out of the house, just to keep the home toasty for your arrival.
The Heater Is Too Powerful
The heater may also be too powerful for your space. Although this may be hard to fix if you've already got a heater installed, it's something to keep in mind when you replace your heater. The capacity and energy rating of the heater should match the size of the space as well as the number of hours per year that you intend to use the heater.
All of the Air Is Mechanically Heated
Another potential missed opportunity if is you haven't yet explored different options for heating air without using electricity. One of the most popular alternatives to a furnace is a geothermal heater, which can use outside temperatures to heat parts of your home (such as the floor). You could also consider using an economizer that pushes air throughout the space based on heating differences in each area. All of these possibilities are something to discuss with your heating contractor the next time they pay a visit.
For more information and assistance, contact a professional or visit websites like http://www.mitchellplumbing.com/.