Energy tips for the autumn

Check the ventilation system

Switch the ventilation unit’s cell from summer mode to normal mode, or turn on heat recovery. Also, check also the condition of the filters and change them, if necessary. Set the supplied air temperature to lower than the preferred indoor temperature; too high of a supplied air temperature increases energy consumption and heating costs.

Check the window and door seals

When the weather starts getting colder, it is time to check the windows and doors for any air leaks and change the seals, if necessary. Ineffective seals allow cold air from outside to flow in, making the floors feel cold. Heat leaks can also be located by borrowing and using a thermographic camera. The Lappeenranta Region Environmental Office lends out thermographic cameras, free of charge. For more information go to: http://www.enne.fi/fi/lainaustoiminta/laempoekamera

Servicing and adjustment of the heating system

The frequency of inspecting and servicing a heating system depends on the heating method used; but, as a rule, inspections should be performed at least once a year.

An oil-fired boiler should be serviced once a year and an oil burner roughly every other year. The oil burns cleaner in a cleaned system, which in turn saves energy and lowers the heating costs.

Check the pressure in a hydronic heating system and ensure that air has been eliminated from the system.

Check that the geothermal heat pump is in the correct operating mode and that the heat pump’s outdoor temperature matches the actual temperature. Also, check that the correct heating curve is in use.

Be careful not to have the heating and cooling on at the same time! Remember to switch the air source heat pump mode from automatic cooling to heat only.

Fireplace and chimney sweeping

Ordering a chimneysweeper is recommended in the autumn, before the heating season begins. Fireplaces and chimneys must be swept once a year.