Another year goes by and winter returns to our homes. It is now when we must think about maintaining an appropriate and comfortable temperature to make our lives a little more pleasant than usual. Having the warmth of home to prevent the cold from being a destabilizing factor in our houses. That is why knowing how to choose a good device to heat and warm buildings is essential, that way we will know how to keep the house warm in winter.
The recommended temperature to achieve effective and pleasant warmth is 18ºC to 20ºC. If it is lower, we will not achieve the desired warmth, and if we exceed it, we will cause a contrast effect between the temperature inside the house and the outside, thus causing the dreaded winter colds. Linear and constant heat is the ideal solution to avoid these winter setbacks.
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Ideas for maintaining a warm climate in your home
At HotFireDoor, we know what winter and cold are like, and we want to offer you some ideas for maintaining a warm and cozy climate in your homes during these months, providing you with useful and recommended tips. In addition to setting the recommended temperature of 18ºC, it would be important to prevent that heat from escaping through door and window gaps.
Therefore, a review of all these elements in the house can show us if we have possible “leaks” that need to be repaired. We achieve nothing if the cold enters through them. Good insulation of doors and windows is essential to keep out the rigors of winter and thus avoid possible cooling.
With this insulation done in our home, we will also reduce our heating consumption bill because, with the house being less cold, the required energy is lower, and therefore we will pay a little less, which is more sought after in these critical times to be able to save on utilities.
What temperature should we set the heating in our homes to maintain a comfortable feeling and respect the environment?
To maintain a comfortable feeling in the home while respecting the environment, it is recommended to keep the temperature of the heating around 20-21 degrees Celsius (68-70 degrees Fahrenheit) in common areas and between 16-18 degrees Celsius (61-64 degrees Fahrenheit) in bedrooms during the night.
This temperature is generally sufficient to provide comfort without excessive energy consumption. However, it is important to consider that the ideal temperature may vary depending on personal preferences, age, health, and level of physical activity of the occupants of the home. It is also recommended to use a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on the schedule and needs of each room.
Let’s talk about ventilation
The topic of home ventilation is very recurrent and discussed. The time required to refresh the air in enclosed spaces should be around 5 to 10 minutes. It is essential for air to enter the rooms, especially in bedrooms and living rooms where we spend a significant amount of time. Despite the cold, it is inevitable to take this action because stale and stuffy air is also not good for the body. As always, it is important to do everything in moderation.
Strategies to improve thermal insulation in the home
When optimizing thermal insulation in a house, it is crucial to use appropriate materials such as mineral wool, extruded polystyrene, or polyurethane foam. These materials, when applied to walls, ceilings, and floors, reduce the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior, improving energy efficiency and creating a comfortable environment. It is essential to evaluate the thermal envelope of the building, considering the thermal transmission coefficient (U-value) and the thermal resistance (R-value) of the materials.
Tips for harnessing the natural heat of the sun during winter
Maximizing the entry of sunlight in winter is essential to naturally keep your home warm. It is recommended to open the curtains and blinds of south-facing windows during sunlight hours, allowing the entry of solar radiation and its subsequent storage in objects and surfaces inside. Closing the curtains and blinds at night helps conserve the accumulated heat. It is advisable to use light colors on walls and furniture, as they reflect light better and increase the sensation of warmth.
Choosing and using efficient heating systems correctly
The selection of efficient heating systems is crucial to maintain a comfortable temperature at home during winter while reducing energy consumption and pollutant emissions.
It is necessary to consider the energy performance, the type of fuel used (natural gas, electricity, biomass, etc.), and the heat capacity of the equipment. Also, using thermostats and zoning systems allows for temperature regulation based on the needs of each room and prevents energy waste.
Installing double-glazed windows
Double-glazed windows, composed of two glass panes separated by a gas or air chamber, provide an effective thermal barrier that minimizes heat loss in winter and the entry of cold from the outside. Installing this type of windows is a long-term investment that contributes to the energy efficiency of the home and reduces heating costs. It is important to consider factors such as the thickness of the glass, the type of gas used in the chamber, and the window frame to ensure optimal insulation.
Underfloor Heating Systems and How They Work
Underfloor heating is a system that distributes heat evenly through pipes or electrical cables installed beneath the floor. This system provides a pleasant and constant temperature throughout the space, avoiding the temperature fluctuations typical of other heating systems. Additionally, it is an efficient and silent option, compatible with various energy sources such as electricity, natural gas, or geothermal energy. It is an ideal system to keep warm during winter.
Properly Sealing Doors and Windows to Prevent Heat Loss
A fundamental aspect of keeping the house warm in winter is ensuring the proper sealing of doors and windows, avoiding drafts and heat loss. To achieve this, it is recommended to use adhesive weatherstrips, elastic putty, or expanding foam in the joints and gaps. It is also necessary to periodically inspect and replace rubber seals and weatherstripping on windows and doors, as it ensures optimal thermal insulation.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Home Insulation
Thermal insulation materials reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency in homes. There are different types of insulation, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Some of them include:
- Fiberglass: It is a common and affordable thermal insulation material, but its installation requires precautions due to the particles that can be irritating or harmful.
- Mineral wool: It offers good thermal and acoustic insulation, but its cost may be higher compared to other materials.
- Extruded polystyrene: It is a lightweight and easy-to-install thermal insulation material, but it may be less efficient in terms of sound insulation.
- Polyurethane foam: It provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, but its installation requires professionals and can be more expensive.
Steps to perform an energy audit and identify areas for improvement
An energy audit is a process that allows for the identification of areas for improvement in terms of energy efficiency and thermal insulation in the home. The steps to carry it out are:
- Visual inspection of the thermal envelope (walls, roof, floor, windows, and doors).
- Evaluation of the heating system and other appliances.
- Identification of potential air leaks and drafts.
- Analysis of energy consumption and comparison with efficiency standards.
- Preparation of a report with recommendations to improve energy efficiency and thermal insulation in the home.
How to adapt interior decoration and design for a warm winter ambiance
Interior design and decoration can also contribute to maintaining a warm and comfortable ambiance in the home during winter. Here are some ideas to adapt the space:
- Use warm colors and natural materials on walls, furniture, and accessories, such as wood, wool, or cotton fabrics.
- Incorporate thick and plush carpets on the floor to increase the feeling of warmth and improve thermal insulation.
- Choose upholstered furniture with cozy fabrics like velvet or chenille that promote heat retention.
- Make use of indirect lighting with floor lamps, table lamps, or candles to create a warm and cozy atmosphere.
- Incorporate elements like blankets and cushions on sofas and armchairs to increase comfort and the sensation of warmth in the rooms.
These strategies, along with proper selection and installation of heating systems and thermal insulation, will help maintain a warm and comfortable home during winter, while reducing energy consumption and caring for the environment.