If you are making an effort to save energy this winter while using baseboard heaters, here are some tips to guide you. Let’s face it–everyone wants to stay warm but no one wants to pay for the huge electricity bill. A proper understanding of how your heater works can help you achieve big savings on your power bills. Save on your heating costs by by knowing how to use your baseboard heater in a sensible manner. Here are some ideas to help you skim a few pennies from your electricity bills and make sure that your furnace is properly sealed and well-insulated to prevent heat escape.
Check for blockages
When you are using baseboard heaters, it is necessary that there are no blockages jamming the unit. It be should far from furniture, curtains and other things. Ensure proper airflow because it will eventually decrease energy efficiency. Heaters usually free heated air out of the top while pulling air into the bottom (either electric or hydronic). It is necessary that baseboard heaters should be placed half-inch or above the floor. Whether you use portable or wall-mounted, put them in an open space.
Check the thermostat
A cost-effective heater usually keeps a room temperature at a certain level. Make sure to check on your heaterís thermostat regularly and set it accurately. Baseboard heaters have line-voltage thermostats attached to them but at times are not capable of providing reliable temperature. Wall-mounted thermostats worked better providing accurate control over temperature that keeps rooms warm.
Check the coils
To get rid of waste and save more money on energy, always check on coils and make certain that they are clean. The presence of accumulated dirt and grime can block the air passage causing the unit to produce more energy. The dust and dirt when accumulated will reduce efficiency of producing the right amount of heat. If not cleaned properly, your heaterís lifespan might be reduced. By cleaning with the use of vacuum unit, you can clean the coil effortlessly.
Don’t turn it off
Donít shut off your baseboard heaters completely if you donít want to heat unoccupied rooms. Instead try to turn down the thermostat to 50 to 60 degrees. It might work as much as harder when switched on the next day thus causing you to pay more. Make sure to invest on models that offer a wide selection with safety measures like shutoff and tip-proof mechanisms. There are a lot of baseboard models in the market that are not only stylish but also are relatively inexpensive.
In choosing a cost effective heating system, it is necessary to keep in mind the comfort and reliability that can be enjoyed by your family. Look for the right structure that works best for you especially during cold winter months. No one wants to freeze to death but no one wants a skyrocketing power bill either. Research very well and don’t be swayed by the sweet-talking salesman. Read online reviews and choose the right baseboard heater that is not only attractive but will also give you a ton of savings on your energy bills.
Photo Credit Flickr: Wwarby