OF WEST VENTURA COUNTY
4 WAYS TO MAXIMIZE COMFORT AND MINIMIZE YOUR ENERGY BILL THIS WINTER
(BPT) - As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to ensure your home is ready to help keep you warm and comfortable all winter long. From preventing frozen pipes to optimizing heating costs, proactive steps can help safeguard your property and well-being.
“A system tune-up at the beginning of the cold weather season can prevent problems and expensive repairs as the temperatures get more extreme later in the winter,” says Jon Ryan, president of Genz-Ryan Plumbing & Heating based in Minnesota and Honeywell Home HVAC customer. “We’ve been servicing homes for over 70 years - my team has seen it all - and we know that being proactive with system maintenance is one of the best things a homeowner can do to keep their systems running smooth and the home comfortable.”
To prepare your home for the cold, consider these tips:
SCHEDULE A PRO TO CHECK THE HVAC SYSTEM
Just like your car, your furnace needs regular maintenance. Contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect and tune up your system to keep it at peak performance. An inspection can check system performance, air filters, and identify indoor air quality opportunities. Professionals also can check the system for harmful cracks, which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide (CO) seeping into the home.
“Have your heating system serviced every year,” suggests Ryan. “As temperatures drop, the use of fuel-burning heaters increases as people try to stay warm, and winter can bring a higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning - so be sure your professional tests for cracks in the heating unit.”
Also be sure your utility room and home are properly outfitted with CO alarms.
UPGRADE TO A SMART THERMOSTAT
By learning your home’s heating trends and adjusting temperatures accordingly, smart thermostats can ensure your home stays comfortable and can help you optimize your energy consumption. For example, during winter, smart thermostats like the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat can automatically lower temperatures when you’re away and increase them as you return, creating a cozy atmosphere without wasting energy through Geofencing technology. Thermostats also offer programmable features that let you
effortlessly adjust temperatures based on your schedule. By lowering your thermostat just 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day, you can potentially cut heating costs by 10% annually, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Plus, many utilities offer rewards for enrolling in demand response programs that can reduce energy consumption during peak times.
CHANGE AIR FILTERS
Regularly replacing your air filters is a proven way to help maintain indoor air quality and support a comfortable environment.
Ryan said: “We get a lot of calls about systems not working properly, and in fact the issue was a result of a dirty air filter.”
Clean air filters also help the overall health of your heating system and allow for better air flow, reducing the stress on your home’s HVAC system and promoting energy efficiency. Inspect your filter once a month for signs of dirt or dust buildup.
SEAL GAPS AROUND WINDOWS AND DOORS
Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase your heating costs. To prevent heat loss, inspect the areas around your windows and doors for gaps. Use weatherstripping to seal cracks and gaps and consider applying caulk to larger openings. For extra insulation, install thermal curtains or blinds. By blocking cold air from entering your home, you’ll enjoy a warmer and more energy-efficient living space.
“Just a few easy steps can help make sure your family stays cozy and your home is protected from the havoc winter weather can wreak,” said Ryan.
So, as you look to minimize your home’s energy bill this winter, please feel free to ask for professional recommendations from any of the agents in this magazine. And keep in mind to practice patience and be kind. And as always, we wish you and your families safe and healthy days ahead.
Laurie A. Cloward-Cater President/Publisher
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Neighborhood SPECIALISTS
Ventura Hillside, Midtown & West - Sitting high above the heart of Ventura, these hillside neighborhoods enjoy some of the best views in the county, seeing as far as the Channel Islands. It’s a hop, skip, and a jump to downtown Ventura Main Street for its exciting nightlife, shops, and relaxing restaurants with inside & outdoor seating. I have lived on the Ventura hillside for over 50 years, and am familiar with all aspects. Put my 37 years of selling Ventura County to use.
Fred Evans, Co-founder 805.267.6701
fred@fredevans.com FredEvans.com
Pierpont Community - This beach community in Ventura is peaceful and beautiful under the iconic swaying palm trees, with restaurants, shopping, and entertainment nearby. The community park hosts summer events for all to enjoy. Homes of all sizes to fit every need. Many cul-de-sac streets for low traffic and privacy, and some ocean views. We hold designations in luxury and second-home markets, and can help you find your dream home today.
Desti & Michele
805.509.5404 & 805.312.1529
DestiAndMichele.com GOLD COAST REALTORS
destiandmichele@gmail.com
Silver Strand/Hollywood by the Sea - A local secret for years! Originally marketed in the 1920s to attract Hollywood to the beach. With only one entrance/exit to this desirable beach community, this beach area is relatively isolated, remaining uncrowded & charming. Just 1 hour north of LA. Enjoy spectacular beachfront homes to cozy cottages, restaurants, wildlife, sailing & surfing. Let the number one beach agent for 42 years find your perfect home!
John Eash
805.236.6417
johneash@hotmail.com JohnEash.com
Neighborhood SPECIALIST HOMES & LAND
Hollywood Beach - Hollywood Beach in Oxnard is famous for early film stars living and filming here. Located on the south end of the peninsula that separates Channel Islands Harbor from the ocean. Because of its huge sandy expanse, it won’t be crowded. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunning and viewing the Channel Islands offshore. Enjoy an easy walk to parks, shops, and many well known eateries. Being the number one agent in Oxnard, let me find your dream beach home.
GOLD COAST REALTORS
Ann Howarth
805.216.4580
annhowarth2525@gmail.com
AnnHowarth.com
Mandalay Shores - Previously known as Oxnard Shores, is all about location, and this is it! Of the homes, many offer breathtaking waterfront views of the sand & ocean. Enjoy a mix of luxury estate size homes, to cozy summer cottages. The area is family oriented with lots of water fun at your fingertips. Walk to parks, shopping, and local restaurants. As long time Oxnard residents with vast knowledge of the area, we give personalized attention to every aspect of the process.
GOLD COAST REALTORS
Desti & Michele
805.509.5404 & 805.312.1529
michelelosey@gmail.com DestiAndMichele.com
Mandalay Bay - Welcome to this amazing stretch of paradise! Looking for a home on the water with a boat dock included? Well look no further! We have waterfront homes starting from $1,595,000 to $3,995,000 depending on size and location. Boat docks will range from 40’ to 100’. Call now for details and ask for your FREE market evaluation. As a Yachtmans Realtor, I have owned 3 sailboats and 11 powerboats in the last 40 years, and have been a PCYC Member for 45 years.
GOLD COAST REALTORS
Mike Losey
805.509.1177
mike.losey@yahoo.com MarinaHomesByMike.com
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