Are you not familiar with the location of your home’s heating system vents? You’re not alone. Most people don’t know where exactly their vents are, but getting to know your heating system can be beneficial to you the next time your system breaks down or needs servicing.
If you are knowledgeable about your HVAC systems, you’ll be able to communicate any problems with your service technician better and avoid overpaying for service.
Read on to learn a little more about your heat distribution system, your vents, and how you can save money on your monthly heating bill!
What Kind of Heat Distribution System Does Your Home Use?
There are two ways to heat your home. You can have a centralized heating system that distributes heat to various rooms through a system of air ducts, or you can have separate units located in different rooms that operate on their own.
Today, most homes use an electric or gas powered central furnace for heat. The furnace blows warm air through a system of ducts and out into each room through warm air registers or grills.
Some homes with central heating also use boilers. More often than not, boilers are natural gas or heat oil powered. They work by heating water, which then flows into radiators in various rooms. The heat from the water heats the metal exterior of the radiator, which then radiates the heat out into the air. As the water cools, it returns to the boiler to be reheated.
Another common central heat option is a heat pump. Pumps distribute heat through air ducts, much like a forced-air system does. They heat the home by pulling what little warm air there is outside during winter months and pumping it into the house. The process is reversed during the summer months when warm air from inside your home is pumped out to cool it.
Why You Shouldn’t Close Vents in Unused Rooms
You may think you can lower your monthly heating bill by closing the air vents in a room when you’re not using it.
The fact is though that closing your vents can actually lead to more wasted energy than leaving them open.
Aside from the fact that it can also raise your energy bill, closing your vents can lead to a system break down, and potentially throw off the warm air distribution in other parts of your home if you have a vent return system.
Tips on How You Can Save Money on Your Heating Bill
Looking to save money on your heating bill this winter? One way to do it is by keeping your window coverings open during the day to take advantage of the free heat given by the sun.
Then, close your curtains at night to keep the warm air in. If you have ceiling fans, they can also help you save money by making your heating more efficient.
If you keep your ceiling fans running at a low speed, rotating clockwise, they will gently push warm air back down into the room to keep it warm.
Help your friends and family learn more about their heating systems by sharing this article. And call Heidler Inc. at (603) 437-7039 to speak with a trained HVAC professional in Derry.
