Cozy Up with Consistent Oil Heating Systems and More Hacks to Stay Warm this Winter
Ready or not, here comes the chill of winter. If you’ve lived in New Jersey through winter before, you already know what we’re about to face. You also know that the best way to stay warm through these next few months is to be prepared. So, before you crank up the thermostat and curl up on the couch, be sure to address your oil heating systems and take note of these super simple cold-weather hacks to stay cozy all winter long.
Because…brace yourselves. Winter is here.
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Now is the perfect time to use all those decorative blankets, scarves, and pillows you’ve been collecting. It’s so simple. Toss a soft blanket or two on all your beds and living room couch. Not only will it add that personal touch to your home decor, but you’ll also have something soft and snuggly to wrap your toes up in while you’re watching Netflix. Adding a few pillows to the couch will also give your home a more inviting feel, too.
If you have tile or hardwood flooring, consider adding an area rug, even shag. And if the thought of sleeping in a cold room gives you chills, grab a set of flannel sheets. It will change your Zzz’s for years to come.
If you don’t have window coverings, now’s the time to add some curtains. Not only will they add personality to your room, but they will also help to keep out cold drafts. Open curtains during the sunny part of the day to let in the heat and close them at night to hold in warm air. And, if you really want to make your nights cozy, consider investing in blackout curtains. These are designed to cut out light (and noise) so that you’ll get a warmer, uninterrupted night’s sleep.
Wear Layers
Instead of reaching for the thermostat, reach for a sweater and a hot drink first.
Remember all those times when your mother told you to put on a sweater when you said you were cold? She had the right idea. Keep those wise words in the back of your mind to keep the heating bill low. Simply putting on a pair of slippers or adding an extra layer will help you keep from losing body heat.
Improve the Air Quality
The Environmental Protection Agency tell us that on average we spend about 90% of our time indoors. And during the winter, we’re spending even more of our time inside. Because of this, it’s important to keep air quality in mind. Dust weekly, clean the air ducts, change furnace filters regularly, and always keep an eye out for mold.
Run your ceiling fan on low and spin it clockwise to push warm air down.
And on occasion, open a window for a few minutes to air out your home.
Humidity levels can also affect the comfort levels. For more information on controlling humidity, read our article, “Solutions for Controlling Indoor Home Humidity.”
Take Care of Oil Heating Systems
You probably have a list of things to do around the house that can help to increase energy efficiency. What are you waiting for? Schedule them in your calendar now. If you take care of the simple repairs before the first flurries fly, you’ll ultimately save yourself time and money in the long-run by avoiding weather-related emergencies. Check out our blog, “Is Your NJ Home Ready for the Cold Weather? 4 Home Comfort Tips,” for more information.
Newer oil-fueled heating systems boast 95% efficiency ratings and produce the hottest flame of any home heating fuel (400 degrees hotter than gas). This allows you to warm your home faster and use less fuel to do so. But just like any equipment, maintenance is a necessity to be able to produce consistent heat and last longer. If properly maintained, an oil heat system can last up to 20 years.
Take a look at more facts about oil heating systems for your home and the numerous benefits it has for you and your family. And explore our “Annual Tune-Up Checklist” to find out more about what’s included in the Gold Plan maintenance package.
Maintenance for Oil Heating Systems by Point Bay Fuel
Family owned and operated since 1906, Point Bay Energy, Heating and Cooling is dedicated to providing fantastic customer service for all your heating needs during those chilly fall and winter months. Give us a call at (732) 349-5059 with any questions about oil heat in New Jersey and then go light a candle and cozy up in a fuzzy blanket with a hot cocoa in hand.