We’ve pulled together a list of easy energy-saving heating tips, from simple tasks where you’ll see a difference right away to energy-efficient home upgrades that pay off year after year. According to Energy Star, in the average American household, almost half of the annual energy bill goes to heating and cooling — more than $900 yearly. Following these money-saving tips can really add up and have a big impact on lowering your heating bills.
1. Seal Leaks and Insulate
One of the most significant contributors to heat loss in your home is air leaks. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and any openings in your home’s exterior. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or draft stoppers to seal gaps and prevent warm air from escaping. Proper insulation, especially in attics and walls, can also significantly reduce heat loss.
2. Upgrade Your Thermostat
Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat can be a game-changer. These devices allow you to set specific temperature schedules, optimizing your heating system’s efficiency. Smart thermostats can even learn your preferences and adjust settings accordingly, saving energy when you’re not at home.
Programmable thermostats
Programmable thermostats allow you to set various temperature preferences during the day for each day of the week. A good guideline for winter is to set it to about 68 — Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) when you’re home and lower it (about 10-12 degrees Fahrenheit or 6-8 degrees Celsius) at night or when you’re away. As great as programmable thermostats are, they only work if you use them properly. If you constantly adjust the temperature — you’ll end up spending more, not less, on your energy bill.
Smart thermostats
If you haven’t already, consider upgrading to a connected, smart home thermostat. Truth is, even though they can, most people don’t use their programmable thermostats properly. Smart thermostats take the human element out of it. These next-gen thermostats do more than just keep your home warm and cozy all winter (which they do very well); they learn your patterns and automatically adjust the temperature for maximum efficiency and energy savings. You can program them remotely, get real-time performance alerts, and even hide that digital display with a screensaver of your choice. When connected, you can control lights, locks, and several other smart home appliances. Our trained comfort specialists can help recommend the best thermostat for your home.
3. Maintain Your Heating System
A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently. Regularly change air filters, clean vents, and schedule annual professional inspections to ensure your heating system runs at its best. A clean and well-tuned system requires less energy to heat your home.
4. Bundle Up and Layer
Personal warmth doesn’t solely depend on cranking up the heat. Dress warmly with cozy sweaters, socks, and blankets to stay comfortable at lower temperatures. Consider using area rugs and heavy curtains to insulate floors and windows, trapping warmth indoors.
5. Optimize Sunlight
Take advantage of natural heat from the sun during the daytime. Keep curtains and blinds open to let in sunlight, which can raise indoor temperatures without using any energy. Close them at night to trap heat inside.
6. Use Space Heaters Sparingly
While space heaters can be convenient for heating small areas, they can also consume a lot of electricity and contribute to rising utility bills. If you use them, do so selectively and turn them off when you leave the room. Ensure they are in good working condition and keep flammable objects at a safe distance.
7. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
If your heating system or other home appliances are outdated, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency. The majority of systems installed before 2006 are 10 SEER or lower. You can save up to 62% in energy costs with a more efficient system. Talk to one of our Trane Comfort Specialists about upgrading to an ultra-efficient Trane today.
8. Practice Zone Heating
Focus on heating the rooms you use the most rather than trying to maintain a consistent temperature throughout your entire home. This can be achieved by closing doors to unused rooms and using space heaters or a wood-burning stove if available.
Take this to the next level by having an HVAC professional install a climate zone system. Trane uses exclusive motorized modulating dampers inside your ductwork to open and close in partial increments. That means heated or cooled air is directed where it’s needed, providing maximum comfort where you want it most.
Contact a Local Trane Dealer to Lower Heating Costs This Winter
Your home heating and cooling system is a large portion of your home energy budget, but lowering your heating bill doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By implementing these practical strategies, you can enjoy a cozy and comfortable home while also reducing your energy consumption and saving money.
Take the first step today and implement these tips to keep your home warm and your wallet happy during the colder months. If you want to really understand your home energy use — and get custom energy-saving solutions. Give us a call today and schedule an in-home energy evaluation.
Shenandoah Air Conditioning & Heating
304-396-1905
