Alternative Heating Methods

How do you plan on heating your home this winter?

Are you prepared for winter? Having a proper method for heating your home is critical during the colder months. It’s important for comfort and for making sure things like your pipes don’t freeze and burst. Whole-home heating systems, like furnaces and heat pumps, are the best way to assure that your home is going to be set at the right, most comfortable temperature. However, there may be times when your central heating system is not available. Here are some alternative heating methods you can use for a short time while you are waiting for your heating equipment to be ready to use. Space Heaters. This is probably the most common alternative heating method. These smaller pieces of equipment can be powered by a variety of different fuel sources, such as: electricity, gas, propane, oil or wood. If you’ve decided to use a space heater, make sure you employ proper safety techniques. While they can provide a significant amount of heat, there are some drawbacks.

• Make sure they are monitored at all times.
• Keep them away from flammable substances like paper or fabric.
• Don’t run them too long. They can overheat and (if they are electric) raise your electric bill.

Fireplace. There’s nothing better than cozying up close to a lit fireplace during the winter. They can heat a room and create a festive environment. However, there are some things you should keep in mind so that you stay safe and comfortable while using one.

• Use an appropriate screen to catch embers and debris.
• Make sure to OPEN your damper when it is in use.
• Make sure to CLOSE your damper when it is NOT in use. A fireplace can act like a giant vacuum when the damper is open – all of your warm air is lost up the chimney.
• Keep flammable materials far enough away from your fireplace (e.g. paper, rugs, furniture, etc).

DO NOT use your oven. We do not recommend using an oven or stove to heat your home, although this has been cited as an alternative heating method. This is incredibly dangerous and can, if natural gas or electric, raise your bills. Remember, the best, most-efficient way to heat your home is by using a central heating system. If you are having issues with your gas furnace or need to replace your old one, make sure you get in touch with your local heating and air conditioning contractor. Are you upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace this winter?

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