Imagine this: it’s a crisp Iowa winter evening in Des Moines. The snow is falling softly outside, the house lights are glowing, and you’re inside—not worrying about your heating bill. Instead, you’re baking cookies for the holidays, planning a weekend ski trip, or picking out gifts for friends. Sounds nice, right?
Unfortunately, for many homeowners, the reality looks a little different: high utility bills, chilly rooms, and a furnace that seems to run nonstop. But with some smart habits, you can take control of your comfort and your budget. Proper heating maintenance in Des Moines, IA is part of it—but so is the DIY care that keeps your system running efficiently between visits from the pros.
1. Start with the Simple Fix: Change Your Air Filter
It’s one of the easiest tasks a homeowner can do, yet it makes one of the biggest differences. A dirty air filter clogs airflow, forcing your system to work harder and use more energy to heat your home. Swap it out every month or two during the winter for better performance, cleaner air, and lower bills.
2. Keep Vents Clear and Air Flowing Freely
Take a quick walk around your home and check each vent. Are any of them covered by furniture, curtains, or rugs? Blocked vents make it harder for warm air to circulate, creating cold spots and unnecessary strain on your furnace. A little rearranging can make your home feel warmer without ever touching the thermostat.
3. Seal the Leaks and Stop the Drafts
Cold air sneaks in through cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and baseboards. Luckily, you don’t need to be a contractor to fix it. A few rolls of weatherstripping, a tube of caulk, or a door sweep can make a huge difference. These small steps keep your valuable warm air inside—and your energy costs down.
4. Boost Insulation Where It Matters Most
Heat rises, and if your attic isn’t properly insulated, a good chunk of it escapes straight through the roof. Check your attic insulation levels and add more if needed. The investment is well worth it—your furnace won’t have to work as hard, and your home will stay cozy even on the coldest Des Moines nights.
5. Use Curtains and Ceiling Fans to Your Advantage
Harness the power of the sun by opening curtains on south-facing windows during the day and closing them at night to retain warmth. Then, reverse your ceiling fans so they rotate clockwise on a low speed. This pushes warm air down from the ceiling and helps heat your living space more evenly.
6. Get Smart About Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat can be your best ally in saving money. Lower the temperature a few degrees when you’re asleep or away from home. Better yet, install a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust the heat based on your schedule and preferences.
7. Call in the Pros for Maintenance and Upgrades
Even the best DIY care can’t replace professional attention. A routine maintenance visit ensures your system is clean, safe, and efficient—and can prevent costly breakdowns before they happen. Our experienced local technicians can also help you upgrade to a smart thermostat that fine-tunes comfort while saving energy automatically.
Enjoy the Warmth—and Spend Your Savings Wisely
Every dollar you save on heating is a dollar you can spend on what really matters—family dinners, holiday fun, or that weekend getaway you’ve been dreaming about. With a little care and the right support from our expert team, you can stay warm, save money, and truly enjoy the winter season.
At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., your comfort is our promise! Contact us today for heating maintenance in Des Moines, IA!