As the weather gets colder, many homeowners start looking for ways to make their homes cozier and more comfortable during the winter months. For residents in cities with mild to cold winters, like San Francisco, where the average temperature can drop to 46°F, these tips can be especially useful in adding some warmth without significantly raising the heating bills.
In fact, with San Francisco’s median household income growing by 5.92% to $126,187 in 2021, it’s the right time to invest in some home warmth enhancements. Turning up the thermostat helps, but that can also lead to high energy bills.
Here are seven tips to help you turn up the heat in your home without breaking the bank this winter.
1. Upgrade your heating system
If your home’s heating system is more than 10-15 years old, upgrading to a newer, high-efficiency system can make a big difference in providing comfortable heat. With new technological advancements, heating equipment has become much more energy efficient.
Replace an old furnace with a new ENERGY STAR-rated model and install programmable thermostats to maximize savings. Also, consider upgrading to zoned heating to only heat up occupied areas of your home. In areas with a climate like San Francisco, where the temperature is usually cool all year and gets cold in January, this can be especially useful.
In order to look for reliable services, enter keywords such as heat pump installation nearby San Francisco and contact a company with ample experience and good reviews. Consult with a reputable contractor will allow you to explore the most cost-effective heating system options for your home.
2. Upgrade to high-performance windows
Windows are one of the primary sources of heat loss in homes. If your windows are more than 20 years old, upgrading to newer high-performance windows can make a huge difference in better insulating your home.
Look for windows with glazing layers and inert gas fills like argon or krypton, which have much better insulation than plain air space. Opt for window frames made from vinyl, wood, fiberglass, or insulated aluminum for better thermal performance.
Also, pay attention to the window’s U-factor (rate of heat loss) and R-value (insulation ability) – the lower the U-factor and higher the R-value, the better the window is at preventing heat transfer. High-performance Low-E coated windows also help reduce heat loss in winter.
Replacing all single-pane windows with Energy Star-certified windows can reduce heat loss by up to 12%, according to the EPA.
3. Perform an energy audit
Hiring an energy auditor to evaluate your home can help identify areas that need better insulation and air sealing. They use equipment like blower doors, thermal imaging cameras, and airflow meters to test for leaks, deficiencies, and efficiency.
Some utility companies and municipalities offer rebates on energy audits and insulation upgrades to help offset the costs. The auditor will provide a home energy score or rating showing how efficient your home is and recommend energy-saving improvements. They can also advise you on suitable insulation R-values for your climate zone.
4. Caulk and weatherstrip
One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to conserve heat inside your home is by sealing all cracks, gaps, and penetrations. Caulk and weatherstripping windows, doors, electrical outlets, pipe penetrations, vents, fans, and any other openings can minimize air leaks.
Use silicone, latex, or polyurethane caulk to seal gaps up to 1⁄4-inch wide. For larger gaps, use spray foam, which expands to fill the space thoroughly. Install weatherstripping made of vinyl, rubber, felt, or foam on windows and doors to reduce air leaks around the frames.
Properly sealing with caulk and weatherstripping can reduce heat loss through air leaks by up to 20%, according to the Department of Energy.
5. Install storm windows
Another way to improve your home’s insulation is by installing storm windows over existing windows. Storm windows form an insulating air pocket between the existing window and the storm window to reduce heat transfer.
Interior storm windows are the most convenient option for most homeowners; they are installed on the inside of the window frame and can be easily removed in warmer weather. Similarly, exterior storm windows are mounted outside the window, but they do require some special considerations for installation.
Storm windows can lower heat loss by 25-50%, depending on the type. These are also an economical alternative to replacing windows if you are unable to do a full window replacement.
6. Use insulated curtains and shades
Heavy insulated curtains and thermal shades are an effective and affordable way to add another layer of insulation over windows; this helps reduce heat loss through the windows.
Look for curtains and shades made with insulation backing or plastic foam layers sandwiched inside. If you want maximum effectiveness, ensure they are securely mounted and make a tight seal against the window frame. Also, close them at night to retain heat accumulated in your home during the day.
7. Seal the fireplace damper
An open fireplace damper is like having an open window in your home, allowing warm air to escape up the chimney while cold outdoor air gets sucked into your home. Sealing your fireplace damper when not using the fireplace is a simple way to minimize heat loss.
For added protection, install tempered glass doors over the fireplace opening. They contain the warm air in the room much better than an open masonry fireplace. If you rarely use your fireplace, plugging and insulating the chimney flue is another effective solution.
Make sure to open the flue before lighting a fire to avoid smoke damage.
Conclusion
Staying cozy and warm during winter doesn’t have to come with high energy bills. With proper insulation, air sealing, storm windows, and an efficient heating system, you can turn up the heat in your home while still being energy-smart.
This is especially relevant for San Francisco residents, where even a slight dip in temperatures during the colder months can be felt due to the city’s generally mild climate. Implementing these tips to retain heat and minimize air leaks can help make your home warmer this winter without turning up the thermostat excessively.
Be proactive to maximize your home’s energy efficiency, and you’ll be able to enjoy a warm, comfortable home all winter long.
