Many homeowners dread the inevitable spike in their heating bills once the colder seasons arrive. But there’s no need to panic! With a few simple changes and clever strategies, keeping the home cozy and the wallet happy this winter is possible. Here’s a guide to saving on heating costs without turning your home into an icebox.
Table of Contents
- Setting Your Thermostat
- Dressing In Layers
- Insulate Your Windows
- Sealing Drafts
- Furnace Maintenance
- The Sun
- Using Space Heaters
- Adding Humidity
- Ceiling Fans
- Rebates and Tax Breaks
Setting Your Thermostat
Did you know that heating and cooling account for a whopping 42% of residential energy consumption in the U.S. and 63% in Canada? It’s the largest energy expense for most households. Lowering the thermostat by just 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day can reduce heating costs by up to 10% each year.
Here’s how to set your thermostat:
- Set the thermostat to 20°C (68°F) when at home and awake.
- Lower it to 17°C (62°F) during sleep or when no one is home.
- Invest in a smart thermostat. These devices can learn your schedule and adjust automatically, saving you up to $180 per year according to ENERGY STAR.
Pro Tip: If you’re working from home, try lowering the temperature gradually. You might be surprised at how comfortable you can be at a slightly lower temp!
Dressing in Layers
Who says you can’t be a fashion icon in your own living room? Embrace your inner hygge and layer up! Think cozy sweaters, fluffy socks, and maybe even a stylish beanie. By dressing warmly indoors, heating costs can be lowered without sacrificing comfort.
Here’s your winter indoor fashion checklist:
- Thermal underwear
- Warm, fuzzy socks
- Soft sweaters
Fun Fact: Every degree the thermostat is lowered can save about 3% on heating bills. So, bundling up can lead to both style and savings!
Insulate Your Windows
Windows are often overlooked when it comes to heat loss, but they can account for 25-30% of a home’s heating and cooling loss. Fortunately, there are many ways to mitigate this issue and reduce heating costs.
Here are some window-saving strategies:
- Apply heat-shrink plastic film to windows for an extra layer of insulation.
- Use heavy curtains or cellular shades, which are designed to provide additional insulation.
- Seal any gaps around the window frames using caulk or weatherstripping.
- If it’s in the budget, consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows.
Sealing Drafts
Drafts are sneaky and can be major contributors to heat loss in a home. Identifying and sealing gaps can prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering.
Draft-dodging tips:
- Create a draft snake by filling a sock with rice or beans and placing it at the base of doors.
- Foam gaskets behind outlet covers and switch plates can help seal gaps.
- Gaps around pipes or wires entering the home should be sealed with expanding foam.
- Don’t forget the attic hatch—weatherstripping can provide a tight seal.
Furnace Maintenance
Your furnace works hard all winter, so show it some love! A well-maintained furnace is like a car that’s had regular oil changes – it runs more efficiently and lasts longer. Here’s how to keep your furnace happy:
- Change or clean the filter regularly – once a month during heavy use.
- Schedule an annual tune-up with a professional HVAC technician.
- Keep the area around your furnace clear of clutter.
- Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model if yours is over 15 years old.
Did You Know? Replacing a furnace that’s over 15 years old could save up to 30% on heating costs, according to the Department of Energy.
The Sun
Even in winter, the sun can provide natural heat. Taking full advantage of the sun’s warmth can help reduce reliance on artificial heating.
How to harness solar heat:
- Open curtains and blinds on south-facing windows during the day to let sunlight in.
- Close the curtains at night to trap the heat inside.
- Plant deciduous trees on the south side of the house. These trees will provide shade in summer and allow sunlight to filter through in winter.
Using Space Heaters
Used wisely, space heaters can be a great tool for reducing heating costs, especially when only certain rooms need heating. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Choose energy-efficient models with built-in timers and thermostats.
- Only heat the room being used rather than the entire home.
- Keep space heaters away from flammable objects and out of high-traffic areas.
Space Heater Math: A 750W space heater used for 8 hours a day could cost about $25 per month, significantly less than heating the whole house.
Adding Humidity
Adding moisture to the air helps combat dry indoor environments, making the air feel warmer without raising the temperature. This can reduce the need for higher thermostat settings.
Humidifier Hacks:
- Aim for humidity levels between 30-50%.
- Place bowls of water near heat sources for a low-tech solution.
- Leave the bathroom door open when showering to spread humidity.
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for the summer. Most fans have a reverse switch that rotates the blades clockwise, pushing warm air down from the ceiling and circulating it more effectively throughout the room.
Fun Fact: Using a ceiling fan in winter can help lower the thermostat by about 2°F without compromising comfort.
Rebates and Tax Breaks
Don’t leave money on the table! Many utility companies and government agencies offer rebates and tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements. These can add up to hundreds of dollars in annual savings.
Check out the following resources:
- ENERGY STAR’s rebate finder
- Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)
- Local utility company websites for available rebates
Final Thoughts
Saving on heating bills doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. By implementing these tips, you’ll be cutting costs and creating a more efficient, comfortable home. Plus, you’re doing your part for the environment by reducing energy consumption.
Remember, every little bit helps. Even if you can’t do everything on this list, implementing just a few of these tips can make a significant difference in your heating bills. Stay warm, save money, and make this winter your coziest yet!
If you’re looking to upgrade your home to make it more energy-efficient or find a space that suits your lifestyle, give us a call today! One of the experienced agents at Zoocasa will be more than happy to help you find your perfect home.
