Winter in Madison, WI, brings freezing temperatures, snowstorms, and plenty of reasons to rely on your heating system. At Shackelford Heating & Cooling, we know how important it is to keep your home warm and energy-efficient during these cold months. Heating your home doesn’t have to come with skyrocketing utility bills or an uncomfortable environment. By following these practical tips, you can maximize comfort and efficiency all season long.
Heating Your House: Tips for Comfort and Efficiency
1. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up
The key to a warm and worry-free winter is a well-maintained furnace. Before the cold sets in, schedule a professional tune-up with Shackelford Heating & Cooling. Our technicians will inspect, clean, and test your system to ensure it’s running efficiently. A tune-up also helps identify potential issues before they turn into costly repairs or unexpected breakdowns during a blizzard.
2. Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation
Drafts and poor insulation are among the biggest culprits of heat loss. Check for gaps around windows, doors, and attic spaces, and seal them using weatherstripping or caulk. Adding or upgrading insulation in your attic and walls can also make a significant difference in retaining heat. Proper insulation can reduce your heating bill by up to 20%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
3. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
A programmable or smart thermostat can be your best ally during winter. Set it to lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away from home and increase it shortly before you return. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends keeping your thermostat at 68°F while you’re awake and at home, and lowering it by 7-10°F during the night or when you’re out. This simple adjustment can save up to 10% annually on heating costs.
4. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Many people associate ceiling fans with summer, but they can also help during winter. Set your ceiling fan to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This motion pushes warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into your living spaces, improving comfort without increasing your energy bill.
5. Maximize Natural Heat
Take advantage of the sun’s warmth by opening curtains or blinds on south-facing windows during the day. Let the sunlight heat your home naturally, and close curtains at night to reduce heat loss. Heavy or thermal curtains can provide additional insulation for windows.
6. Keep Your Heating System Clean
Dirty filters and clogged vents make your heating system work harder than necessary, wasting energy and driving up costs. Replace furnace filters every 1-3 months, especially during heavy usage. Make sure vents are clean and unobstructed by furniture or rugs to allow warm air to flow freely.
7. Maintain Proper Humidity Levels
Winter air is often dry, which can make your home feel colder even at higher temperatures. A humidifier can help maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50%, making your home feel warmer and more comfortable. Proper humidity also protects wooden furniture, flooring, and prevents dry skin or respiratory discomfort.
8. Consider Upgrading Your Heating System
If your furnace is more than 15 years old or struggling to keep your home warm, it may be time to upgrade. Modern high-efficiency furnaces have AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings of 90% or higher, meaning they convert more fuel into usable heat. For a more sustainable option, consider installing a heat pump, which can efficiently heat your home even in cold climates like Madison. Shackelford Heating & Cooling can help you choose the best system for your needs and budget.
9. Zone Heating for Efficiency
Zoning your heating system allows you to direct warmth to the rooms you use most, avoiding energy waste in unused spaces. Pairing zone heating with a smart thermostat can further optimize comfort and efficiency.
10. Schedule an Energy Audit
A professional energy audit can help identify areas of heat loss and inefficiency in your home. Common issues include leaky ductwork, outdated windows, and insufficient insulation. Shackelford Heating & Cooling can perform an energy assessment and recommend upgrades to improve efficiency.
Why Choose Shackelford Heating & Cooling?
As a trusted HVAC provider in Madison, WI, and surrounding areas like Fitchburg, Middleton, Waunakee, Verona, and Monona, Shackelford Heating & Cooling specializes in keeping homes warm and energy-efficient. From routine maintenance to system upgrades, our expert team is here to ensure your comfort all winter long.
Don’t let the winter cold catch you off guard—contact Shackelford Heating & Cooling today to schedule a furnace tune-up, explore energy-efficient upgrades, or get advice on making your home more comfortable this winter. Stay warm, Madison!
