Looking for tips on how to save money on your heating bill this winter? You’re not alone!
Approximately 1 in 6 American households are behind on utility bills, as energy prices are the highest they’ve been in nearly 15 years.
Follow this guide for simple tips and tricks to keep your family warm and cozy this year, while also saving you some money.
1. Lower Your Thermostat
Lowering your thermostat is a no-brainer. By just lowering your thermostat a few degrees, you can save on your heating bill more than you may realize.
If you plan to be away from your house for a long period of time, lowering your thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees for up to 8 hours can save up to 10% on your annual energy bill.
2. Seal Drafts Around Doors & Windows
If your home still feels chilly even when the heat is running, drafts could be the cause.
Cold air can sneak in through small gaps around doors and windows, forcing your heating system to work overtime.
A few easy fixes include:
- Weatherstripping
- Door sweeps
- Caulking window edges
These quick, low-cost upgrades help keep warm air in and cold air out.
3. Upgrade (or Cover) Your Windows
Did you know 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows? If you’re seeing higher energy bills, upgrading your windows before winter begins is a great way to save in the long run.
However, there are other low-cost options, including:
- Thermal curtains
- Floor length window coverings
- LOW-E window film
4. Let In Sunlight
It may seem silly, but strategically opening and closing blinds can also reduce your overall energy bill this winter.
Open your blinds or curtains to let sunlight and warmth in during the day. However, make sure to close them at night to insulate your home.
5. Don’t Block Air Flow
Make sure that your furniture is not covering any radiators or vents, so air is able to easily circulate and heat up rooms.
Along with this, make sure vents, radiators, and fireplaces are free of dirt and debris. If they’re clean, they’re able to work at full capacity.
6. Close Your Fireplace
Close the flue and damper when your fireplace is not in use. This makes sure that hot air isn’t escaping your home.
When in doubt, hire a professional to make sure your chimney is properly sealed this winter. It just may save you some hard-earned money!
7. Clean Your Heating System
If you haven’t already, clean your HVAC system, including ductwork and filters. Changing out the filter at least once per year can help make sure that your system will be well functioning.
Along with this, you should hire a professional to inspect your furnace each year. This can save you a more costly repair later on.
8. Close Off Unused Rooms
If there are rooms in your home you rarely use, consider closing the vents and doors in those spaces.
This allows your heating system to focus on the areas you actually spend time in, improving efficiency and reducing wasted heat.
9. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
If you tend to forget to adjust your thermostat, a programmable or smart thermostat can do the work for you.
You can schedule temperature changes based on when you’re:
- Sleeping
- At work
- Traveling
- Home and active
Smart thermostats can optimize heating patterns automatically, helping you stay comfortable while cutting unnecessary energy use.
10. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
This one surprises a lot of homeowners!
Most ceiling fans have a reverse setting that pushes warm air (which rises) back down into the room.
Set your fan to spin clockwise at a low speed during winter months to help circulate heat more evenly so your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard.
Avoid Costly Emergency Repairs This Winter
Want to avoid emergency repairs this winter on your heating system? We can help you out this winter with all of your heating system needs! Prevention is key when it comes to HVAC systems. That’s why we offer annual maintenance inspections to guarantee your system is good to go for this winter.
Contact us today to get started, or for more help figuring out how to save money on your heating bill.
