It’s hard to get kids in your Fredericksburg, Virginia, home to care much about energy efficiency. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. Set good examples and spend time explaining the importance of energy efficiency to your kids this winter.
Bundle Up in the House
Encourage your family to stay warm with blankets, slippers, robes, and warm clothes instead of relying on the heat to solely keep you warm. Let your kids pick out some new warm clothes for around the house before winter hits to encourage everyone to snuggle up. Consider getting space heaters for bedrooms at night. Change out sheets and blankets for heavier blankets and flannel sheets to help your family stay cozy at night as well without having to turn the heat way up.
Don’t Crank Up the Thermostat
Don’t let your kids control your thermostat. Upgrading your thermostat to a smart thermostat allows you keep your thermostat set and under your control. Make sure you also are a good influence in your household with the thermostat. Avoid walking into the house and cranking up the thermostat to get warm. The temperature won’t heat up any faster, and it will wear down your unit faster putting it into overdrive. It’s also inefficient and can cause you to drain more energy.
Go Over Your Utility Bills
Kids probably don’t think about utility bills regardless of their age because they’ve never had to pay them. Sit your kids down and show them your utility bills so they can see how much it costs every month to heat your home in the winter. Make it a game by having your kids help you with energy efficient tasks like checking your filters and winter-proofing your doors and windows. If kids understand the actual cost, they are more likely to maintain and develop good habits for your home.
If you have questions about your heater and HVAC system this winter, we are the people to call. Contact Custom/Design at (540) 322-1096 to speak with an experienced professional today.
