Staying warm when the weather turns cold is a priority. Not only is heat a major comfort factor on chilly days, but a warm home is essential for good health. If your home is not adequately heated during the winter, find out why by investigating the following possibilities.
Doors and Windows
Inspect your home's doors and windows for signs of cold air entry. Not only will that make your house feel colder, but if cold air can get in, warm air can escape. Air currents moving in the wrong direction rob your living space of the warm temperature needed to keep everyone safe. Repair any of your home's broken window frames or door jambs. Replace worn or damaged weather strips around these areas. Keep the windows closed except for occasional fresh air.
Insulation
Older homes sometimes feel colder if there is not enough insulation in the walls. Some homes have little to no insulation. You may need to have additional insulation blown into the home's critical areas to maintain adequate heating and cooling temperatures as needed. Adding updated or more insulation to the attic helps to hold heat in a home as well.
HVAC
Have your HVAC system checked by experts every year or two to ensure the system is functioning correctly. Routine maintenance can find minor problems before they turn into big ones. As your furnace gets older, it may lose some of its ability to heat your home consistently and efficiently. Discuss a potential new furnace installation with a reliable HVAC company to be prepared to replace your furnace when it stops heating your home effectively.
Roof and Foundation
If your roof has been damaged by high winds or tree limbs, there may be slim openings that let in drafty air that you cannot see or feel. But cold air can circulate through your home insidiously to affect your indoor temperature and comfort. The same type of problem can develop in your basement or crawlspace. If your home's foundation blocks are deteriorating or shifting, leaving gaps that let in cold or damp air, your home may feel chillier than it should. Have these areas inspected for problems, and have them repaired quickly to improve your indoor warmth.
Don't let your home's heat be compromised by issues like these. Ensure these important elements are in good condition to keep your home safe and comfortable and to avoid losing valuable warm air in cold weather.
