With all of the forced downtime and more people than ever working from home as a result of the pandemic, some of the issues and problems inside our homes have become more noticeable. Little things such as drafty windows or air leaks that may not have seemed like much of a concern in prior years have suddenly become hard to ignore.

Many are using the increased downtime to not only cross off some items on the old punch list, but to also find new methods for improving their home’s efficiency and comfort levels. With that in mind, here are some practical, easy solutions for saving heat and energy:

• Find a cover for drafty windows. Whether it’s an insulating window treatment or just some clear plastic sheeting taped to the inside of the window, this can be an effective way to trap heat in the wintertime.
• Capitalize on the solar gain. Opening up the south-facing windows in your home will allow heat and sunlight to stream inside, reducing the amount of time the heating system has to run.
• Take care of necessary heating system maintenance. Replacing an air filter can have a positive impact on the performance of a heating system, since a clogged air filter can make a heating system have to work harder to achieve the same temperature. Cleaning the exterior of a system and ensuring that it is free of leaves and other forms of debris can also improve performance.
• Have the ductwork inspected. It can pay dividends to have a professional come in and inspect the ductwork, as holes and corrosion can drastically reduce a heating system’s effectiveness.
• Check on the fireplace. It may be hard to believe, but many home owners forget to close the flue after using the fireplace. Leaving the flue open can be like having a window open, so it makes sense (and dollars) to inspect the fireplace.
• Find air leaks and seal them up. There are many hidden areas where air can leak out: gaps around chimneys, unfinished spaces behind cabinets, recessed lighting installations and utility cut-outs are just a few locations that could possibly benefit from a well-placed bead of caulk or some weather stripping.
• Create a maintenance calendar for your heating system and consider purchasing a contract for regular maintenance. As a system ages, being proactive about replacing worn parts can be an effective strategy for heading off major repairs. Even for newer systems, having all of the electrical and mechanical parts inspected can help you stay aware about what pieces may need to be repaired or replaced in the future. Getting a preventative maintenance contract with a local HVAC company will allow you to stay informed about all of the components, and possibly avoid spending huge sums on replacements.

To learn more about the preventative maintenance options we offer, schedule an inspection for your current heating system or chat about energy saving ideas, please call 910-791-0480, text 910-612-0052, or email [email protected].


Chris Jones and the team at Green Dot HVAC are committed to provide their clients with a consultative, transparent approach, driven by innovative technology and a diligent work ethic.  With a team of highly trained and versatile technicians, a focus on helping clients make informed decisions, and a commitment to deliver substantial value, Green Dot HVAC is a leader in the Southeast North Carolina marketplace.  To arrange a free at-home consultation, a repair/installation or simply find guidance about the nuances of modern heating and air conditioning systems, call 910-791-0480 or text 910-612-0052.