As the temperature continues to fall, more and more homeowners are firing up their furnaces to stay warm. Taking steps to increase your heating efficiency will help you make your home even cozier this winter and reduce your utility bill in the process. Here are three tips heating contractors recommend to boost your system's efficiency.

How to Make Your Home’s Heating More Efficient

1. Winterize Your House

Drafty windows and doors are major sources of wasted heat. Instead of letting warmth — and money — seep out of your home into the cold air, taking steps to winterize your house will keep the heat where it’s supposed to be. Using weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps in window frames will close any air leaks, and plastic sheeting can completely cover the window and insulate the area. There are also other sources of heat loss that are more difficult to detect, such as electrical outlets, attics, and ductwork. A heating contractor can help you identify additional problem areas if you still think your home is losing heat.

2. Program Your Thermostat

If your home is mostly empty during much of the day, keeping it constantly warm and toasty can be a waste of heat and energy. Programming your thermostat or upgrading to a new model tailors your energy use to only heat the space when necessary. With newer devices, you can program your furnace to turn down from mid-morning to early evening and then warm things up shortly before you and your family return home for the night.

3. Schedule an Inspection From a Heating Contractor

Your furnace breaking down on a chilly winter night is the last thing you want to happen. Scheduling an inspection from a professional heating contractor will help prevent complications and can also improve your system’s efficiency. The professional will address any issues that need repairing before they become major problems. These repairs will also tweak your system’s performance so it’s not wasting any effort warming your home.

If you’re looking to improve your home heating efficiency this winter, Air Control Company in Lexington, KY, is ready to help. With more than 40 years of experience in the industry, the knowledgeable heating contractors provide expert installation, maintenance, and repairs to keep your home comfortable and warm through the entire season. With convenient 24/7 emergency availability, you’ll never be without the heating system help you need. Visit their website for a full list of services, or call (859) 253-1734 to speak with a friendly representative today.