In this article…
- 8 Ways To Save Money on Heating Bills and Stay Warm(Without Raising The Thermostat)
- Staying Warm All Winter Long While Saving Energy
In the midst of a long, cold, snowy winter, sometimes you just want to crank the heater up and settle into a cozy mood. However, you’re looking for ways to turn up the heat in your home without touching the thermostat.
There are plenty of simple and effective ways to maintain warmth in your home without ever turning the temperature up on your thermostat to save energy while staying comfortable.
By making a few strategic changes to your home’s insulation, heating system, and everyday habits, you can create a more energy-efficient environment that keeps you comfortable all winter long.
At DEETS Mechanical, we’ve been the HVAC expert for Northwestern Pennsylvania homeowners since 2001, helping you with all things heating and cooling, from what to look for in a trustworthy HVAC company to finding the right replacement system for you.
We understand that when winter comes around, so do higher energy bills. You want to stay comfortable with some energy-saving tips to stay warm without raising your thermostat.
This article will outline eight energy-saving tips to maintain and improve warmth in your home without touching the thermostat so you can lower heating bills and increase comfort at the same time.
8 Ways To Save Money on Heating Bills and Stay Warm(Without Raising The Thermostat)
Homeowners in the Northern U.S. spend an average of $500-$800 per month on heating, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Even if your heating bills aren’t that extreme, reducing the strain on your heater will ensure it continues operating through winter while saving money on energy bills.
Here are eight simple and effective ways to maintain and improve heat in your home without touching the thermostat.
1. Insulate Your Attic
The attic is often one of the biggest sources of heat loss in a home. If your attic isn’t properly insulated, warm air from your system can easily escape, forcing your heater to work harder.
Adding or upgrading insulation in your attic helps to keep heat trapped inside, reducing the workload of your furnace and keeping your home warmer.
2. Insulate and Clean Ductwork
Your ductwork is responsible for distributing warm air from your system throughout your home. If your ducts are leaky or poorly insulated, heat can escape before it reaches your living spaces.
According to ENERGY STAR, sealing ductwork can improve your system’s efficiency by 20%
Have a professional inspect and insulate your ducts, and make sure they’re free from dirt and debris to ensure maximum airflow.
3. Turn Down Your Water Heater
Water heaters are another hidden source of energy usage. By turning down the temperature on your water heater to 120°F, you’ll not only prevent scalding but also save energy. This small adjustment can have a big impact on your heating costs, and it won’t affect your daily comfort.
4. Keep Ceiling Fans On
Many people think ceiling fans are only useful in the summer, but they can be a great tool for winter too. Set your ceiling fan to run in a clockwise direction at a low speed, which will help circulate warm air trapped near the ceiling back down to where you need it.
This simple trick can make your home feel warmer without touching your thermostat.
5. Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can let cold air seep in and warm air escape. Inspect your windows and seal any cracks with weatherstripping or caulking.
For added insulation, you can also use thermal curtains or window film to keep the cold outside and the warmth inside.
6. Replace Filters
Clogged or dirty furnace filters can restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of your heating system.
Make sure to check and replace your furnace filters every 1-3 months (depending on the filter type), especially during the heating season. This ensures that air can flow freely, helping your furnace operate more efficiently and keeping your home warm.
7. Open Curtains During the Day and Close Them at Night
Take advantage of natural sunlight during the day by opening your curtains or blinds to let the warmth from the sun into your home. As the sun sets, close your curtains to trap the heat inside.
Utilize thicker drapes for single-pane windows to maximize insulation, as single-pane windows are not as insulated as double or triple-pane windows.
This simple habit can help regulate the temperature in your home and keep it warmer, all without adjusting the thermostat.
8. Schedule Heating Maintenance
A well-maintained heating system works more efficiently, keeping your home warm without excessive energy consumption.
Scheduling regular maintenance for your furnace or heat pump ensures everything is running smoothly, reducing the chances of a breakdown and maximizing efficiency.
A professional technician will clean and inspect the core components, making sure your system is ready to handle the cold for the rest of the winter.
Staying Warm All Winter Long While Saving Energy
Now you know seven money-saving tips to keep your home warm without turning the heat up and can improve overall comfort while saving on energy bills.
Maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home doesn’t always mean cranking up the thermostat. From sealing windows to regular furnace maintenance, even a small adjustment adds up to a warmer, more efficient home.
So, the next time you feel the temperature dropping, try out these strategies and enjoy the warmth without the extra cost. This will help your home work smarter, not harder, and help your HVAC system last longer.
By implementing these simple tips, you can reduce your heating costs, improve energy efficiency, and create a more comfortable living space throughout the winter.
At DEETS Mechanical, we’re committed to providing you with all the education you need regarding your HVAC system. We understand how expensive heating bills can get because we’re homeowners too.
That’s why we’re here to provide you with energy-saving tips for your HVAC system from summer to winter so you can lower energy bills without compromising your comfort.
To keep your system running smoothly and avoid potential shutoffs, check out this article that outlines eight tips to maintain your furnace for the winter, like changing air filters, clearing vents, and more.
