Getting Ready for Winter

(Page 2 of 2)

October/November 1991
 
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Steam Heating System

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*Replace any air vents that aren't working. To check, warm the system up and listen as the air comes out of the vent. You should hear a click, after which the air will stop rushing out. Or, unscrew the vent when the radiator is cold and blow through it. Install a new vent if you can't blow through it or your radiator doesn't "click" off.
*Dust or vacuum radiators frequently.
*Don't cover radiators or block their air flow.
*Prevent sediment buildup in your boiler. Once or twice a month drain half a bucketful of water from the low water cut-off valve (looks almost like a faucet and is usually mounted near the bottom of the boiler with a piece of hose attached to it). Once you have drained off the sediment, open another valve located near the ceiling to let water flow to the boiler. It is important that you add enough water to keep the level adequate to fill the boiler jacket, usually shown in the glass type (sight glass) as As midway point. Do not add too much water at any one time if the unit is on; sudden temperature change can crack the boiler.

Warm-Air Heating System

*Replace your air filters and change them again every one or two months.
*Move furniture and rugs away from registers. That breathtaking room arrangement can be redone next spring.
*Check the dampers within the supply ducts coming from the furnace. Make sure that each is adjusted to provide even heat throughout the house (more to frequently used or drafty areas like a front living room, less to well-heated places like interior secondfloor bedrooms). To do this, position handles on the side of each duct near the furnace to the desired heat flow.
*If your system is gas-fired, remember to turn off the pilot light next summer, using the pilot control knob (don't blow the light out). If you don't know how, ask your heating system service company.

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Comments

  • mark tyrol 12/9/2008 4:29:28 AM

    How To Reduce Your Energy Bills / Energy Conservation Begins at Home

    Imagine leaving a window open all winter long -- the heat loss, cold drafts and wasted energy! If your home has a folding attic stair, a whole house fan or AC Return, a fireplace or a clothes dryer, that may be just what is occurring in your home every day.

    These often overlooked sources of heat loss and air leakage can cause heat to pour out and the cold outside air to rush in -- costing you higher heating bills.

    Air leaks are the largest source of heating and cooling loss in the home. Air leaks occur through the small cracks around doors, windows, pipes, etc. Most homeowners are well aware of the benefits caulk and weatherstripping provide to minimize heat loss and cold drafts.

    But what can you do about the four largest “holes” in your home -- the folding attic stair, the whole house fan or AC return, the fireplace, and the clothes dryer?

    For complete info visit www.batticdoor.com

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