Small inefficiencies in your home heating system can add up to big bills over time. When you first move in, you may not have a complete grasp on how well its heating works, and whether there are specific problems that need to be addressed. However, there are some simple steps you should take in almost any instance to improve your insulation and allow your system to perform as well as it can during the coldest months.

Here are some examples:

• Buy a water heater blanket. If you have an older water heater, its insulation may be questionable. Luckily, fixing this is much easier – and cheaper – than investing in a new heater altogether. You can actually purchase special water heater blankets that will help the system retain heat. Just be careful not to cover the burner or thermostat itself. Follow all of the instructions for safe insulation.
• Wrap exposed water pipes. If hot water pipes are exposed, they will lose some heat as water travels from the heater to wherever you need it. This is especially true if the pipes are running through cold, unfinished basements. Wrap them with insulation to save energy.
• Investigate air leaks. They can be anywhere. Doors and windows may not be fitted properly, especially in older homes that have had time to settle. Also be sure to check around electric outlets. You may have to spray foam insulation around them to prevent drafts.

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