Whether the furnace in your Forest Park home is an older model or a new high-efficiency unit, air leaks in your home and air flow problems in the ductwork can combine to increase the cost of heating over the winter. There are many things that you can do yourself to save energy, reduce your utility bills and help you to remain comfortable this winter.

• Inspect your insulation, especially in the attic. You should have at least R-38, and new guidelines suggest even higher amounts, up to R-49, in the attic floor. Add more insulation, if necessary and seal any areas that air can leak through, such as around plumbing vents, furnace vents and electrical lines.
• Clean or replace the air filter on your furnace. A clogged air filter will slow down the movement of warm air, loosing some of that heat to unconditioned areas.
• Clean the cold air intake of the furnace, the heating registers and the ducts. Any dust and debris in these locations will impede the flow of warm air and cause heat loss. Check the ducts for leaks and have them sealed and insulated, if necessary.
• Check the siding and the foundation for any cracks or holes that could allow heated air to escape. Repair the siding where necessary and seal any gaps or leaks with caulk, especially around any widows, doors, exterior plumbing or electrical boxes.
• Inspect the roof for signs of wear, including broken, warped or missing shingles or roof tiles. Repair these areas to avoid air leaks.
• On the inside, check around doors and windows for air leaks or gaps. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal any gaps and use foam insulation behind the faceplates of electrical outlets and switches to provide a better seal. Install door sweeps at the bottom of exterior doors to prevent heat loss.

These simple steps can help reduce heat loss in your home and allow your furnace to do its job more easily. For information on more ways to reduce your energy costs, please contact our HVAC professionals at Tri-County Heating and Cooling.

Image via Shutterstock.com