NEWS
5 Ways to Cut Your Heating Costs This Winter
This upcoming winter, it’s expected that households in the US will spend more on energy costs than in prior years due to rising natural gas prices.
For many Americans, the idea of paying more for heating this winter isn’t just daunting, it’s anxiety-inducing. Many households already struggle to pay their bills each cycle.
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to cut heating costs this winter. Find out what to do before the chill sets in.
1. Close the Gaps
Proper caulking, weather stripping, and draft stoppers can prevent chilly air from entering your home from your windows, doors, and gaps around the home. Sealing these gaps also prevents heat from escaping outside.
You can get window insulator kits, which are a good investment for homeowners in colder climates or with older windows. That said, it’s always a good investment to upgrade to energy-efficient windows when you can. If you can’t afford to replace your windows, consider getting coverings that will help, such as blinds and curtains.
2. Replace Your Home Insulation
Over time, old insulation can wear down and form holes that heat can escape through. If you have older insulation, it might be time to replace it.
Don’t forget about insulating your pipes. This is a simple step that reduces heat loss and shortens the time you wait for the water to heat up. Not only does this conserve water, but it’ll reduce energy costs too.
3. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are the wave of the future, and they can help you cut energy costs too. These devices are easily programmable, and learn your habits to adjust temperatures as needed to save you money.
You can monitor your habits and find areas where you can save, such as lowering the heat when no one is home or when everyone’s sleeping.
4. Get an HVAC Tune-Up
If your heating system isn’t running as efficiently as it could, you’ll likely see higher energy bills as a result. Heating systems that haven’t been maintained have to work harder to heat your home, using more energy in the process. Plus, running overtime can cause them to wear out faster.
The last thing you want is for your heater to break in the middle of winter!
Schedule an HVAC tune-up before winter rolls around. The solution might be as simple as changing your filter or cleaning the internal components.
However, if your system needs replacing, you should look into a heating service such as new HVAC installations in Dallas.
5. Add More Rugs and Curtains
You can keep your home warmer by adding rugs to your floors and hallways, hanging heavier curtains to block out the chill, and bringing out the blankets. While this may not make a huge difference on your bills, it’ll make it cozier inside.
If you keep the thermostat low to reduce costs, consider wearing sweaters and warm socks to keep yourself comfortable.
Reduce Heating Costs This Winter
We can’t prevent increases in fuel prices, but we can take steps to cut heating costs this winter. Use these tips to reduce the amount you owe on your monthly bills.
For more tips on how to make the most of your home or save money, check out our other content.
Kenneth is a proud native of sydney, born and raised there. However, he pursued his education abroad and studied in Australia. Kenneth has worked as a journalist for almost a decade, making valuable contributions to prominent publications such as Yahoo News and The Verge. Currently, he serves as a journalist for The Hear Up, where he focuses on covering climate and science news. You can reach Kenneth at [email protected].
