As homeowners, we pay close attention to our heating bill, and with good reason. According to the U.S. Dept of Energy, heating our home comprises roughly 42% of our utility bill. But while we try to follow the right energy-efficient techniques, many of us make common mistakes. In this month’s blog, the home comfort specialists at Main Stream Mechanical share five common home heating mistakes.
1. Turning up the Thermostat for Faster Heat Your HVAC system distributes the same amount of heat, at one speed, no matter what your thermostat is set at. Increasing the temperature by several degrees, doesn’t increase the heating rate, it just increases the operating time of your heating equipment. Set your thermostat to the regular temperature you want and let your heating system run its cycle. If you have a programmable thermostat, don’t set it back more than a few degrees, especially on very cold days. If it seems like your home takes forever to get warm, you may benefit from insulation and air duct system improvements.
2. Forgetting to Change your Air Filters A clogged air filter prevents your furnace from working efficiently, which can increase your energy bill. It can also be harmful to the operation of your HVAC unit and affect your indoor air quality, exacerbating respiratory, asthma, and allergy problems. Set a reminder to check your air filter every 60 days by removing it from its slot and holding it up to the light. If light is blocked, your filter is clogged and needs to be cleaned or replaced.
3. Forgoing your Annual Heating Maintenance Like your car, your heating system needs to be professionally tuned up every year. Missing an annual maintenance check could lead to costly repairs and lower the life expectancy of your unit. It could also invalidate your manufacturer’s warranty agreement.
4. Installing a New Thermostat Yourself Installing a thermostat may seem like a common DIY task, but unfortunately it’s a complicated process, as not all thermostats are compatible with all heating systems. Additionally, there are specific installation requirements concerning placement and location. If you’re concerned about matching up a new thermostat device to your heating system, contact a professional technician to help you source and install the right energy-efficient thermostat for your home.
5. Installing or Repairing a Home Heating System Yourself When it comes to installing or repairing your heating system, leave it to the professionals, as they say. HVAC work requires advanced training and knowledge. Even if you have all of the right tools, it’s an involved and complicated undertaking. Skilled technicians have the appropriate level of experience. They are also familiar with the code and permit requirements, which are designed to make sure your heating unit works safely and efficiently. Go ahead and change your air filters and replace thermostat batteries, but contact a heating specialist to handle the challenging repairs.
Home Heating System Installation, Maintenance, and Repair in NH, MA
Contact the service pros at Main Stream Mechanical to schedule a home heating system checkup in time for the winter season. We provide heating system installation, maintenance, and repair in Haverhill, Amesbury, Newburyport, Rowley, Topsfield, Boxford, and other locations across Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire.
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