As we head into the coldest time of year, many homeowners’ minds will be drifting to images of a cozy house kept warm by a hardworking heating system. No matter how chilly it gets, however, there are certain actions you can take that aren’t so good for the system’s long-term life span. So, as your electric or gas furnace works away this fall and winter, try to avoid these heating mistakes. 

Don’t Make These Heating Mistakes This Winter

1. Keeping the Curtains Shut

The sun can be a powerful source of heat, even during the wintertime. By keeping your curtains shut all the time, you’re preventing rays from pouring in through the windows and helping your home stay warm. This little heating boost allows your electric or gas furnace to work a little less, reducing the chance of breakdowns, saving energy, and cutting back on utility expenses. 

2. Cranking the Thermostat

Coming home to a chilly home isn’t the most pleasant experience, but it’s important to be patient with your electric or gas furnace. Cranking the thermostat puts a lot of unnecessary stress on the system and, over time, can increase the chance of malfunctions and breakdowns. It’s best to slowly increase the temperature to allow the furnace to warm the space gradually and efficiently.

3. Always Running the System

Keeping your home warm during the fall and winter might sound like a comforting plan, but the constant heat makes your electric or gas furnace work much harder than it needs to. Upgrading to a programmable thermostat lets you time the heat cycles of the system, increasing its efficiency by only running it when there are people in the house. Giving the furnace a break during the day (when no one is home) increases its life span, reduces the likelihood of malfunctions due to stress, and cuts back on heating costs.

Even if you’re doing everything right when it comes to your electric or gas furnace, you might still need a bit of professional help. J.J. Smith Heating & Cooling in Cincinnati, OH, has been providing expert HVAC services for more than 35 years. Whether you’re buying a new unit or need maintenance, the experienced team will help you stay warm through the chilly season. Visit the website for more information on the services available or call (513) 231-1156 to speak with a friendly representative today.