Reducing energy loss means reducing heat loss. The days get shorter, but never less busy. As we shuffle in and out, swinging doors open, bundling up and heading out into the cold, there are small changes we can make to keep our homes warm too. Consider using this guide as a checklist to make sure your insulation and ventilation are doing okay in these dark times. Just asking the right question means you’re halfway there. To get you started, the five steps are programming your thermostat, sealing air leaks, doing maintenance on filters and insulation, optimizing fans and vents and upgrading to energy-efficient equipment.

1. Program your thermostat

Not every heating system is programmable, but if it is, thermostats can be programmed to minimize heat loss while occupants are away or asleep. Indoor temperatures should remain between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit and can be dropped down 7 to ten degrees Fahrenheit while sleeping or away. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this can save 10% each year in electrical costs.

A common misconception is there will be no real savings because to return to a comfortable temperature, an adjusted furnace must work harder than normal. However, the closer the building’s temperature is to its environment, the slower it will lose energy. Heating in cold weather resists entropy. In other words, the closer the space’s temperature is to outside, the less energy will be lost.

A programmable thermostat should be set to begin cooling down well before you leave or sleep, and return to normal temperatures about two hours before waking up or returning home. Sitting down to map out an efficient program one time will save hassle and further maintenance in the future, in addition to reducing costs and energy loss. In the case of alternatives, such as heat pumps, maintaining a moderate temperature is the most cost effective.

2. Seal leaks

Sealing minor leaks in window frames, air ducts or around doors will significantly decrease heat loss in the winter. Even a small leak can let in a flow of cool air, disrupting the environment. Attach clear plastic sheets or film to the insides of window frames to reduce heat loss. Drafty windows can also be covered with tightly fitted drapes or shades. During the day, open the curtains of south-facing windows to take advantage of sunlight and naturally warm the space.

Use caulk or weather stripping along the frames of doors or windows, and seal air leaks in pipes or air ducts. It’s important to check out air ducts and look for minor breaks that could have happened upon installation or came up over time. There could also be gaps around chimneys or unfinished wall space.

3. Maintenance

Air filters need to be regularly changed for warm air to circulate efficiently. Dirt and dust restrict air flow, meaning the furnace has to work harder to keep up, using more energy. It’s easy to forget about this element of your heating and cooling system, but a quick replacement will leave you with cleaner, warmer, less energy taxing air. Air filters should be changed or cleaned with the changing of the seasons, about every four months, or closer to two months with pets.

Additionally, it’s important to inspect and repair the building’s insulation, specifically in basements and attics. It may need to be repaired or replaced, which can significantly keep your home from losing heat.

4. Optimize fans and vents

We turn on exhaust fans to cool a steamy bathroom after a hot shower or clear up a smoky kitchen, but without steam or smoke, these fans are removing valuable warm air. They should be turned off within 20 minutes after use.

Another often misused fan is the one on the ceiling. Most fans have a clockwise and counterclockwise setting that can be adjusted. Switch fans to their clockwise settings in the winter to push warm air down and pull cold air up. This will more evenly distribute heat in the room. Additionally, direct heating vents to the more frequented rooms and away from unused ones, and make sure these vents aren’t hiding under furniture.

5. Upgrade to energy efficient equipment

While it’s more work to upgrade, energy efficient equipment holds onto your heat and your savings in addition to helping out the environment. These small choices make a difference in the long run for both you and your neighbor. Geothermal heat pumps are the most efficient, using the Earth and ground water for heat. Heat pumps are another great choice, using outdoor air for both heating and cooling. This makes them versatile and energy efficient; great for moderate climates. Other alternatives include high-efficiency furnaces, natural gas boilers and radiant floor heating systems.

For more information on heating equipment, contact Northrich company at 216-581-4750 or go to www.northrich.com