Tips

Tips for Your Space Heater & Fireplace

  • Use a space heater that has been tested as having the latest safety standards.
  • Place space heaters in an open area. Keep them at least 3 feet away from flammable material.
  • Turn off the space heater when you leave the room or go to sleep.
  • Buy seasoned wood for your fireplace. Seasoned wood is wood that has been allowed to dry out.
  • Reduce heat loss from the fireplace. Keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use.

Tips for Winter

  • Install a programmable thermostat. Use it to automatically control the heat when you are not home.
  • Check if cold air is getting into your house. If you house is drafty you may need additional insulation.
  • Use drapes. Where windows face the sun, keep the drapes open in the day, but close all the drapes at night.
  • Curb fireplace costs. Call a professional chimney sweep to perform your annual fireplace inspection.

Tips for your Furnace

  • Turn your thermostat down 5 degrees. (Each degree saves about 2% on your energy bill)
  • Have a professional tune up and inspect your furnace. (This can save you up to 10% on your heating costs)
  • If you have a warm-air furnace or heat pump check filter each month
  • If you have hot water or steam heat check water levels. A furnace dealer can tell you how to add more water.
  • Make sure heat can get into the room. Keep furniture and drapes from blocking radiators, heating registers, and return vents.