Ways to Stay Cozy and Save Big on Your Winter Heating Bills

Although the winter hasn’t officially begun, the cold weather surely has! Now is the time to start working to ensure your home is as efficient as possible before the mercury drops below freezing on a regular basis.

Finding the balance between a cozy home during the winter and savings on your utility bills can feel like a ridiculous balancing act. Short of passing out blankets and wool socks, how can you trim the heating bills while still keeping toasty indoors? We have learned a few tips that could help you to maximize your comfort while minimizing your costs. Take a look to learn more!

• Get a Handle on Last Year’s Expenses- Figure up an average of last year’s heating bills. Knowledge is a great way to move forward knowing that you are working to lower the bills. Knowing your average will help you to prepare financially and avoid any late fees when unexpectedly high bills show up in your mailbox.

• Install a Smart Thermostat- Your thermostat isn’t just a box to control the temps. It can work with you to keep things at a comfortable temp while you’re at home and a cooler temp while you’re at work each day. Set it to turn the temperature down overnight and then to increase before you wake up each day. This tech is able to help you think less about your heating while lowering your costs.

• Hang Cozy Curtains- Weatherproofing with curtains is an old trick that works wonders. You need to hang curtains anyway, why not get some that increase your home’s efficiency in the process? Lined curtains help to contain potential drafts and keep the cool air where it belongs on windy days.

• Design Your Home for Warmth- Decorating for warmth isn’t just for the eyes. Including plush rugs, warm throw blankets, or even a fireplace insert could mean your home is better prepared for the cooler temps.

• Reverse Your Fan Blades- Instead of circulating the cool air down, turn your fan blades to help the heat rising flow downward. This simple switch takes only seconds and can make you more comfortable throughout the season.

• Install a Clean Air Filter- You should check your unit’s air filter for recommendations, but most filters should be changed each month. Putting in a clean filter means that your unit won’t have to work as hard to warm your home each month. Set up a subscription service or make monthly reminders to keep ahead of this simple maintenance trick.

• Bundle Up Your Home- You’ll dress for warmth during the winter months, why not dress your home as well? Installing better installation is a gift that will keep giving in future winters. Don’t let that valuable heat escape! Prepare for the winter months ahead of time with new installation.

• Seal Any Drafts- Check windows, doors, and any other openings for drafts. An outdoor breeze isn’t a good idea any time of the year! Seal any drafts to prevent energy loss and bug infestation.

• Close the Damper- If you have a fireplace you’re probably excited for long nights spent curled up with your warm drink of choice. These are a great way to warm the central parts of your home during the winter, but keep an eye on the damper! If you aren’t using your fireplace, close the damper. This vent lets the smoke out during a fire, but can let cold air inside when the fire isn’t in use.  

• Become Energy Efficient in Other Areas- Create new energy saving habits throughout your home. Use LED light bulbs, unplug unused appliances, or cut back on your time spent taking long showers. By saving in other areas, you can put the savings toward the higher heating bills that come each fall and winter.

What are your favorite ways to save money on your heating bill? We’re sending you warm and cozy wishes and hopes for lower utility bills as the temperature continue to drop throughout the season.

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