Staying warm is one of the biggest challenges in cold weather. Fortunately, you can make your Highland Park, Illinois, home comfortable and save energy with some simple tasks. Use a humidifier, add ceiling fans, and check your insulation to stay warm in fall and winter.
Use a Humidifier
Air with more moisture feels warmer than dry fall or winter air. A humidifier can save energy and lower your utility bills by letting you use your heater less. It also prevents sore throats, nosebleeds, irritated eyes and other problems caused by dry air. A humidifier can even reduce snoring and keep wood floors and furniture from cracking. You can choose a whole-home humidifier or a less expensive portable unit.
Add Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans can increase the value of your home, and you can use them even when it’s cold outside. They spin counterclockwise in summer to create a cooling breeze.
You can change the direction of most fans to clockwise in fall and winter by flipping a small switch near the center. Then, the fan can move warm air near the top of a room toward the ceiling and down to the floor. Your home will feel warmer without all your heated air stuck near your ceilings.
Check Your Insulation
Poor insulation causes uncomfortable drafts and wastes energy. Turn off your HVAC system and use a candle or an incense stick to check for leaks or gaps. If the candle flickers or the smoke from the incense goes toward or away from your walls instead of straight up, you should add more insulation. Weatherstripping around your doors and windows can often solve the problem. You could also need more insulation in your attic or basement.
Carefree Comfort is a Bryant Factory Authorized Dealer with more than 30 years of experience. We can help you install, maintain and repair a variety of HVAC equipment to keep your home comfortable all year. Call us anytime at 847-388-0115 for outstanding service.
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