Winter in Asheville, Arden, and Candler, NC, can bring a welcome chill after those long, hot North Carolina summers. But as temperatures drop, you’ll want to keep your home cozy without driving up your utility bills. At American Air Heating & Cooling, we’re here to help with essential tips to stay warm and save energy all winter long.
1. Let the Sunshine In
Open Blinds and Curtains During the Day
Don’t miss out on a free source of heat—the sun! If your home is well-insulated, opening blinds and curtains during the day can naturally warm your rooms. Sunlight also lifts the mood and combats winter gloom. Just remember to close your drapes at night to lock in the heat.
2. Layer Up and Turn Down the Thermostat
Use Extra Blankets and Lower Settings
When you feel chilly, it’s tempting to nudge up the thermostat. However, adding an extra blanket or a cozy sweater is often enough to stay comfortable. Lowering your thermostat by just 1°F can save you up to 10% a year on heating costs. Keep a few throw blankets on hand for a cost-effective way to stay warm.
3. Reverse Your Ceiling Fan
Harness Warm Air in the Winter
Ceiling fans aren’t just for beating the summer heat. Flip the switch to reverse the fan’s rotation to clockwise in winter. This pulls cooler air up and pushes warm air down, spreading heat more evenly. Make sure to keep the fan on a low speed to avoid creating a chilly draft.
4. Insulate Your Home for Optimal Comfort
Check Windows, Doors, and Ductwork
Good insulation is key to keeping heating expenses down. First, inspect windows and doors for air leaks, and seal any gaps with caulking or replace worn weather stripping.
Next, look at your attic and crawlspaces. Poorly insulated ductwork leads to significant heat loss. If you feel warm air escaping from holes or gaps in ducts, it’s time to have them sealed and insulated by a professional HVAC contractor like American Air Heating & Cooling.
5. Change Your HVAC Filters Regularly
Prevent Unnecessary Wear and Tear
A dirty or clogged filter forces your heating system to work harder, reducing efficiency and raising energy bills. Changing your filters at least every three months helps keep your furnace running smoothly. It also improves indoor air quality, a must during colder months when windows are often shut tight.
6. Schedule Routine Furnace Maintenance
Keep Your Furnace Safe and Efficient
Regular upkeep is essential for a reliable heating system. When you schedule preventive maintenance with the licensed HVAC technicians at American Air Heating & Cooling, we’ll inspect your furnace, identify any potential issues early, and ensure everything is running at peak performance.
Trust American Air Heating & Cooling for Your Winter Comfort
Staying warm in the Asheville area doesn’t have to mean soaring energy bills. By following these practical tips—letting in natural light, layering up, reversing ceiling fans, insulating your home, changing filters, and scheduling regular furnace maintenance—you’ll enjoy a cozy home while saving money.
Need help prepping your home for winter?
Our team at American Air Heating & Cooling is here to assist with furnace tune-ups, insulation checks, duct sealing, and more. Contact us today to schedule your service and stay comfortable all season long!
