Proper maintenance of your home heating system can prevent future problems. An annual inspection and tune up is recommended each fall before the weather gets too cold.

According to Energy Star, in typical houses, 20% of the air that moves from the heating system through the ducts is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts. This can result in some rooms being too hot or cold, humidity problems, excessive dust or rooms that never seem to get comfortable. Here's some steps you can take to improve duct performance:

  1. Seal leaks using mastic sealant or foil tape. Never use duct tape.
  2. Insulate all ducts you can access such as those in attic, crawlspace, basement or garage.
  3. Make sure connections at vents and registers are well-sealed where they meet the floors, walls and ceilings.

Conserve energy by setting your water heater to the optimal temperature. 120 degrees F or a medium setting should be the maximum.

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