As temperatures drop, heating bills tend to rise. But keeping your home warm doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. With a few smart adjustments, you can stay cozy while keeping your heating costs under control. Here’s how:
1. Adjust Your Thermostat Wisely
Even a few degrees saved on your thermostat settings amount to real savings. In winter, 20°C (or 68°F) is the recommended temperature when you’re home and 17°C (or 62°F) while you sleep or leave the house. A smart thermostat can adjust temperatures on its own, to save energy.
2. Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation
Rain and frost entering through gaps at doors or windows make your heating system work harder. You can solve this by:
- Using duct tape or caulk to close any gaps around doors and windows.
- Mount thick curtains, so that warmth stays inside.
- Check the roof and wall insulation, so heat does not escape.
3. Maintain Your Heating System
If a furnace or heat pump is not maintained well, it will work harder and use more energy. In order for it to run in this way without short-term costs to you, keep the following routine:
- Change air filters according to your system’s instructions.
- Have an annual inspection of your HVAC to ensure it’s working at peak efficiency.
- Keep furniture and dust away from vents and registers.
4. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air
Many people forget that ceiling fans aren’t just for summer! Set your fan to rotate clockwise on a low setting in winter to push warm air down and improve heat distribution.
5. Take Advantage of Natural Heat
Open curtains and blinds during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your home. Make sure to close them at night to trap heat inside.
6. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your furnace or heat pump is over 15 years old, upgrading to a high-efficiency model can cut your heating bills by 20–30%. Modern systems use less energy while providing better comfort.
7. Use Space Heaters Wisely
For small areas, a space heater can provide quick warmth without cranking up the thermostat. But be careful! Only use them in occupied rooms and never leave them unattended.
8. Reduce Hot Water Heating Costs
Set your water heater to 49°C (120°F) to avoid excessive heating costs. Take shorter showers and consider a low-flow showerhead to use less hot water.
9. Consider a Heat Pump for Year-Round Savings
Heat pumps are one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat your home. They use less electricity than traditional systems and work in both summer and winter, helping you save money all year.
Stay Warm for Less with Infiniti HVAC!
Want to lower your heating bills without sacrificing comfort? Infiniti HVAC provides expert furnace, heat pump, and HVAC maintenance services in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you save!