As the temperatures drop this winter, you may notice your energy bills climbing. Heating your home can account for a large portion of your monthly expenses, but there are steps you can take to reduce your energy usage without sacrificing comfort. At Native Air, Inc., we want to help you stay warm and save money during the colder months. Here are some effective tips to lower your heating costs this winter: 1. Schedule a Heating System Maintenance Check Before you crank up the heat, make sure your HVAC system is ready for the cold weather. A well-maintained furnace or heat pump runs more efficiently, which means it uses less energy. Schedule a professional maintenance service to clean the system, replace filters, and inspect components for any issues that could lead to higher energy use. Regular maintenance also extends the life of your system, saving you money in the long run. 2. Seal Drafts and Insulate Your Home Cold air entering through gaps and cracks can significantly increase your heating costs. Seal around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulking to prevent heat from escaping. Adding insulation to attics, basements, and walls helps keep warm air inside and cold air out. The better your home is insulated, the less your heating system has to work to maintain a comfortable temperature. 3. Use a Programmable Thermostat One of the easiest ways to save on heating costs is by using a programmable thermostat. By setting your thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re away or asleep, you can reduce your energy usage without sacrificing comfort. For every degree you lower your thermostat, you can save about 1% on your heating bill. 4. Keep Your Thermostat at a Lower, Consistent Temperature While it’s tempting to keep your home warm and toasty, lowering your thermostat to a cooler setting (around 68°F during the day and 60-65°F at night) can make a noticeable difference in your energy bills. If you’re comfortable, consider wearing layers of clothing to keep warm instead of turning up the heat. 5. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Heating Equipment If your HVAC system is old and inefficient, it might be time for an upgrade. Newer models of furnaces and heat pumps are designed to be more energy-efficient and can help you save money over time. If you’re unsure about the best option for your home, our experts at Native Air, Inc. can help you choose and install a system that fits your needs and budget. 6. Utilize Ceiling Fans Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer! In the winter, set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This will push the warm air that rises back down into the living space, making your home feel warmer and allowing you to lower your thermostat setting. 7. Close Unused Vents and Doors If you have rooms that aren’t used frequently, close the vents and doors to those areas. This forces the warm air into the rooms you use most, which can improve heating efficiency. Just be sure not to block vents in rooms that need to remain heated to avoid putting strain on your HVAC system. 8. Take Advantage of the Sun During the day, open curtains and blinds to let sunlight naturally warm your home. Once the sun sets, close them to trap the heat inside. This simple strategy can make a noticeable difference in your home’s temperature and your energy consumption. 9. Use Space Heaters Wisely If you only need to heat one or two rooms, consider using a space heater instead of cranking up the thermostat for the whole house. Be sure to use space heaters safely and never leave them unattended. 10. Consider Zone Heating If your home has multiple levels or larger rooms, zone heating can be an excellent option. You can install dampers in your ducts to control the flow of air and heat specific areas of the home, rather than heating the entire space. Zone heating allows you to focus energy where it's most needed. Reducing your heating costs this winter doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these tips, you can enjoy a warm, cozy home without breaking the bank. At Native Air, Inc., we’re committed to helping you keep your energy bills under control. If you need assistance with maintenance, repairs, or an upgrade to a more efficient system, contact us today! Stay warm and save money this winter with expert services from your trusted HVAC team in Lowell, NC. To learn more about how the Native Air team can keep your home warm and comfortable this winter, check out our heating service page today!