If you’re like most homeowners in the Triangle, you start looking for ways to save energy once cold weather arrives. One of the oldest tricks in the book is closing air vents to avoid wasting heat on unused rooms. But does this actually save money? Read on for Boer Brothers’ tips on using your heating vents this winter.
Closed air vents increase heating costs
The idea behind closing air vents is to divert warm air from empty rooms to areas of the home where it can actually be enjoyed. This seems like a pretty simple and effective way to save energy, right? Actually, the opposite is true. Those rooms with closed vents will become colder than the rest of the house, forcing your furnace or heat pump to use more energy to try and maintain a consistent temperature. Leave your heating vents open to lower your heating bills this winter.
Leave heating vents open to prevent HVAC damage
In addition to reducing energy usage, open air vents can extend your HVAC system’s lifespan. Closed air vents can cause unhealthy pressure levels to build in the ductwork, as the air has fewer exit points. Too much pressure can damage the HVAC system, leading to frequent repairs over time. Keep your heating system running for years to come by opening your air vents.
Energy saving tips this winter in Chapel Hill
Ok, so closing air vents won’t save money. What can you do? Fortunately, there are many other proven ways to cut down on your heating bills this winter in Chapel Hill. Common energy saving tips include:
- Open window blinds to let in sunlight
- Use a humidifier
- Seal home with weatherstripping/caulk
- Run ceiling fans in reverse
- Use blankets/warm clothes
These are just a few of the many ways you can save energy without overworking or damaging your heating system this winter.
Call Boer Brothers Heating & Cooling or click here for all your furnace or heat pump maintenance needs today!