10 Smart Ways to Lower Your Bills Without Sacrificing Warmth
Winter is here, and as temperatures drop, heating bills often rise. However, staying warm this season doesn’t have to come with sky-high energy costs. With a few smart strategies, you can keep your home cozy while saving money. Here are 10 practical tips to lower your heating bills without sacrificing warmth.
1. Seal Drafts and Air Leaks
Drafts around doors and windows are like open invitations for cold air to enter your home. Use weatherstripping, caulking, or draft stoppers to seal these gaps. You’ll retain heat and reduce energy waste significantly.
2. Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable or smart thermostat can save you money by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re asleep or away. Lowering the thermostat by 7–10 degrees for 8 hours a day can reduce energy costs by up to 10%.
3. Insulate Your Home
Proper insulation in walls, attics, and basements can make a huge difference in heat retention. If your home feels drafty, consider adding insulation where it’s needed most.
4. Use Ceiling Fans to Your Advantage
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer! Set your fan to rotate clockwise on low to push warm air down into the room, keeping you toasty while using less heat.
5. Keep Your HVAC System Maintained
A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently. Schedule a professional tune-up annually to ensure your furnace or heat pump is performing at its best. Regular filter changes also prevent airflow issues and lower energy use.
6. Maximize Sunlight
During the day, open curtains or blinds on south-facing windows to let in natural heat from the sun. Close them at night to trap the warmth inside.
7. Close Off Unused Rooms
If there are rooms in your home that you rarely use, close the doors and vents to redirect heat to the spaces you spend the most time in.
8. Bundle Up
It might seem obvious, but wearing warm clothing and using cozy blankets can allow you to set your thermostat a few degrees lower without feeling cold.
9. Check Your Ductwork
Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can waste up to 30% of the heat produced by your HVAC system. Have a professional inspect and seal them for maximum efficiency.
10. Consider Upgrading Your System
If your heating system is over 15 years old, it might be time for an upgrade. High-efficiency systems can drastically lower energy costs while keeping your home consistently comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I change my HVAC filters in winter?
A: Ideally, you should check and change your filters every 1–3 months, depending on usage and filter type.
Q: What temperature should I set my thermostat to in winter?
A: For energy efficiency, aim for 68°F when you’re home and lower it by 5–10 degrees when sleeping or away.
Q: Can a space heater save money on heating bills?
A: Yes, but only if you use it to heat a single room and lower the thermostat for the rest of the house.
Contact Us
At Garrison & Garrison, we’re here to keep your home comfortable and cozy all winter long. Garrison and Garrison is Madison County’s Most Trusted heating and air conditioning contractor. For more than 50 years, Garrison and Garrison have provided state-of-the-art heating and cooling solutions for our Madison County neighbors.
📞 Call us at (256) 859-8500
📧 Email us at [email protected]
🌐 Visit us at www.garrisonandgarrison.com
