Tips for Controlling The Temperature in Your Home

Heating and cooling account for a significant portion of the energy used in the average home. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling costs can make up as much as half of your total utility bill. 

There are several reasons why you might want to keep your home within a specific temperature range, such as reducing your utility bills or keeping pets cool. 

No matter what your reason may be, here are a few tips that can help you keep the temperature in your home under control.

Landscape for Shade

One option to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter is carefully considering the landscaping around your house. 

By strategically placing trees and other plants, you can create natural shade that keeps your home cooler in the summer months. In the winter, deciduous trees (which lose their leaves in the fall) can provide extra sun and warmth.

Of course, landscaping is a long-term investment, and it takes time for trees and plants to grow. But if you’re patient, it can be a very effective way to control the temperature in your home without relying on air conditioning or heating.

Install a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat is a great way to control your home’s temperature. By installing a smart thermostat, you can program it to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule and needs. 

This can save you money on your energy bill and help you keep your home comfortable all year round. There are many different types on the market, so it’s important to do your research to find the one that will work best for you. 

Another thing to keep in mind is the cost of installation. Some smart thermostats are easy to install, while others may require the help of a professional. If you’re not comfortable installing the thermostat yourself, be sure to factor in the cost of installation when you’re shopping for a thermostat.

Upgrade Your Roof

One of the most important things you can do to keep your home comfortable all year long is to upgrade your roof. A good roof will protect your home from the elements and help regulate the temperature inside. 

In addition, a well-insulated roof will also reduce your energy bills.

There are several different types of roofs that you can choose from, and the best type for you will depend on your climate and the style of your home. 

• Metal roofs — If you live in a hot, dry climate, a metal roof is a good option. Metal roofs are designed to deflect heat away from your home, which keeps it cooler during the hot months. 

• Rubber roofs — If you live in a cold climate, then a rubber roof is a good choice. Rubber roofs are designed to insulate your home, which keeps the heat in during the cold months. 

The cost of upgrading your roof will vary depending on the materials you use and the size of your home. However, the long-term savings on your energy bills will make the investment well worth it. 

Keep Curtains Drawn

One effective way to help control the temperature in your home is to keep curtains drawn. This helps block out the sun’s heat in the summer and can also help keep heat from escaping through windows in the winter. 

Time-wise, this is a very easy task that only takes a few seconds each day. Cost-wise, it is also very affordable as you likely already have curtains in your home. The long-term payout is significant, as you will see lower monthly energy bills. 

Maintain Your HVAC System

Your home’s HVAC system is responsible for keeping the temperature comfortable all year round. However, if your air ducts are clogged, it can make it difficult for your heating and cooling system to do its job properly. 

Regular maintenance and repair of your HVAC system are important to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Here are some tips for maintaining your HVAC system:

• Clean or replace your air filters regularly. Dirty air filters make your system work harder than it needs to due to airflow restrictions. 

• Have your ducts cleaned regularly. Clogged air ducts can reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling system.

• Schedule regular maintenance appointments for your HVAC system. Regular HVAC maintenance will help to keep it running smoothly and prevent major issues from developing.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your HVAC system runs efficiently and effectively all year round.

Ensure Your HVAC is the Right Size

If you’re not comfortable with the temperature in your home, you should ensure that your HVAC system is the right size. A unit that’s too small may not be able to adequately heat your space, while a unit that’s too large can cause temperature control problems.

To find out what size HVAC unit is right for your home, consider the square footage of your living space. A good rule of thumb is that you’ll need about 30 BTUs per square foot. So, if your home is 1,500 square feet, you’ll need an HVAC unit with a capacity of around 45,000 BTUs.

You can also consult a professional to help you determine the right size HVAC unit for your home. Home inspectors, for example, can advise on the best size unit for your space.

In addition, you should also make sure your HVAC unit was properly installed in the first place. Otherwise, you may run into reoccurring issues, such as higher energy bills, temperature irregularities, and leaking coolant. 

Once you’ve determined the right size HVAC unit for your home, you can take steps to ensure that it runs efficiently through regular maintenance.

Check Insulation

One way to control your home’s temperature is by ensuring that it is well insulated. This will help to reduce the amount of heat that escapes from your home, and will also help to keep the air inside your home circulating properly. 

If you live in an older home, you may want to check the insulation in your attic and walls to ensure that it is still effective. You can also add insulation to your home if you feel it is necessary.

Seal Windows and Doors

If you live in an area that experiences extreme temperatures, you should ensure your windows and doors are properly sealed. 

During the winter, drafts can come in through cracks and gaps around your windows and doors, making your home cold and uncomfortable. In the summer, heat can escape through these same cracks and gaps, making your home uncomfortably warm. 

There are a few different ways to seal windows and doors. One option is to use caulk or weather-stripping to fill in the gaps around your windows and doors. 

Another option is to install storm windows or doors. Storm windows and doors are designed to fit snugly over your existing ones, creating an additional barrier against drafts and temperature extremes.

Know Your Climate

Most people know that the climate type in their area can have a big impact on how to keep their home cool or heated throughout the year. There are four main types of climates: tropical, dry, temperate, and polar. Each one comes with its own set of weather patterns and temperature ranges. 

Knowing which climate type you live in can help you better understand how to keep your home comfortable all year round — no matter the weather.

• Tropical climates are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 78°F to 86°F. Humidity levels in tropical climates are typically high, making them feel even hotter than it is. If you live in a tropical climate, it’s important to keep your home well-ventilated to prevent mold and mildew from growing.

• Dry climates are hot and dry, with little to no humidity. Average temperatures in dry climates range from 68°F to 86°F. Because there is little moisture in the air, homes in dry climates are at risk from wildfires. If you live in a dry climate, it’s important to have a fire safety plan in place and to keep your home clear of any flammable materials.

• Temperate climates are moderate, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. These climates can have both hot and cold weather, depending on the season. In the winter, homes in temperate climates are at risk of freezing pipes. In the summer, homes in temperate climates can be susceptible to thunderstorms and hurricanes.

• Polar climates are cold and have very little moisture. Average temperatures in polar climates range from -22°F to 68°F. Because of the extreme cold, homes in polar climates are at risk for things like freezing pipes and ice dams. It’s important to take steps to winterize your home if you live in a polar climate.