Winter weather will soon be over although it may not feel like it in the Flint area. But until then here are a few suggestions to help keep you comfortable while riding out the winter season.
If you haven’t already had your HVAC system serviced, now would be a good time to get it done. Any problems with your heating system should be taken care of before temperatures start to rise, as neglecting its maintenance until next season can prove problematic and sometimes costly.
Humidity concerns in the winter are the opposite of summer issues. The more humid air feels warmer and in the winter the challenge is keeping the air in your home from becoming too dry. This is particularly true in dry climates like the Flint area can be at times. Very dry air is not healthy for you or your home. It can lead to respiratory problems and cause the wood furniture and trim in your home to crack and split.
Adding a humidifier can make a big difference, especially a whole house humidifier that works in conjunction with your HVAC system. Call a good local HVAC contractor like Holland Heating and Cooling for more information about home humidifiers.
If you have ceiling fans, turn them on slow in reverse during the winter months. This will circulate the warm air that rises to the ceiling without creating drafts. Also, winter is a good time to let the sun in. Open blinds and drapes during the day to take advantage of natural solar heating. At night, close drapes and blinds to hold in the heat.
A fireplace adds ambiance and charm, but it can waste a lot of energy. Remember to close the damper when the fireplace is not in use to avoid heat loss up the chimney. Also, use exhaust fans over the stove and in bathrooms sparingly. All that expelled warm air will be replaced by cooler outside air and your HVAC system will have to work harder to keep your home warm.
