3 Ways to Save Heat in Your Home this Winter

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

As winter is fast approaching, all North Dakotans know that saving heat is important. Between saving money on energy bills and increased home comfort, these tips below are well worth the time and effort to get your home prepared for winter.

• Turn fans on. Circulate air throughout your home during the cold months. We tend to turn our fans off when it gets cold but turning them on can actually have benefits. As your furnace heats the air, that warm air eventually rises to the ceiling and cools off or escapes through windows and imperfections in the roof. Turning fans on, and if angling them towards the ceiling if possible, forces that trapped warm air back down and heats your home.

• Use a humidifier. Moist air retains heat better than dry air, so running a humidifier can save money in heating cost while also adding many health benefits.

• Sealing leaks. The easiest and best way to retain heat in your home, and save energy costs, is through sealing leaks. Your home releases hot air through imperfections in building materials and construction design. Common areas to find leaks include around doors, windows, near the attic, where wires and cables enter your house, and around electrical outlets. Seal gaps around any pipes, wires, vents or other openings with caulk or weather stripping. This costs as little as $5 and can save up to 10-20% of your heating bill.