Fall has arrived in Rhode Island. Sweaters and jackets are back out, and the heat is back on. As you warm up to the idea of getting your heat going, here are five tips for reducing your heating costs and keeping your heating oil furnace or heating oil boiler running at maximum efficiency—now and into the winter.
Heating Efficiency Checklist
Ensure that your home’s windows and doors are sealed. You can drastically reduce air leaks and improve everyone’s comfort level all fall and winter. All it takes is a small investment in door sweeps, door seals and some caulk. Once you cut out these drafts, your heating oil system will run more efficiently, which will also cut your actual heating costs.
Put a programmable thermostat to work. Your home’s temperature can be adjusted while you’re out—or while you’re sleeping—with the help of a set-it-and-forget-it device. You can expect to see a 10% decrease on your heating bills, and you’ll enjoy similar benefits in the summer.
Call for your annual tune-up. An annual tune-up really sets the tone for the season—and gets your system running at its maximum potential for efficiency. This is good for your heating oil boiler or heating oil furnace itself as well as for your bottom line. Schedule your tune-up today! And remember, with a service plan, your tune-up is already paid for, not to mention the better prices and priority service you’ll enjoy for any other repairs you need.
Adjust your ceiling fans. When you reverse the direction of your ceiling fans, you’ll be pushing the warm air back down into the room, and your heating system will have less work to do. (Check your manual or the website for the fan company for details about how to do this.)
Make sure your vents are all cleared. Whether you’re looking at dust and small debris on your vents or an array of toys, furniture and even a rug blocking the way for air to get through, it’s important to clear this area—thoroughly and regularly. Once the airflow is not blocked, your heating oil system will work at a higher rate of efficiency, which means you’ll be warmer and your bills will be lower.
Try these tips from Vaughn Oil to save all season in your Rhode Island home! Let us know if you’d like to become a customer or if you’d like to sign up for a service plan for your heating oil-fired system.
