10 Ways to Lower Your Heating Bill This Winter
The winter does more than chill us to the bone; it can take its toll on furnaces and wallets. Many homeowners dread winter simply because of poor energy efficiency and high energy bills.
However, with a few simple strategies, you can maintain a cozy home without breaking the bank.
Keep reading to learn how to save on heating costs while keeping your home energy-efficient this winter and how local basement, foundation, and crawl space specialists can help.
Our Top 10 Winter Energy Saving Tips
We want you to stay cozy this winter and save money for more than just heating bills, so we compiled a list of 10 home energy saving tips. Some are simple enough to do yourself, while others may require professional assistance.
1. Clean and Maintain Your Heating System
Regular furnace maintenance ensures it runs efficiently. Replace filters monthly and have a professional service your system annually to keep it in top condition.
2. Upgrade Your Insulation
One of the best ways to conserve energy and maintain warmth is to ensure your home has proper insulation. Check your attic, walls, and basement or crawl space for adequate insulation. Adding or upgrading insulation can lead to substantial energy savings over time.
Groundworks installs thick foam crawl space insulation panels that have a superior R-rating and resist moisture and pests. This is a more efficient, longer-lasting option than soft fiberglass, which easily succumbs to moisture and pest infestation.
3. Seal Air Leaks
Inspect your home for drafts around windows, doors, and other openings. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or foam sealant to close these gaps. This simple step can significantly reduce heat loss and lower your energy bills.
4. Use Draft Stoppers
Similarly, you can place draft stoppers or rolled towels at the base of doors to prevent cold air from seeping in. This is especially useful for exterior doors and those leading to unheated areas like the garage or basement.
5. Cover Bare Floors
Rugs and carpets add comfort and help insulate your floors. Consider adding area rugs to bare floors to keep your feet warm and reduce heat loss.
6. Encapsulate Your Crawl Space
Along with insulating your crawl space as we discussed earlier, encapsulation with a thick and durable vapor barrier is a game-changer. This fully isolates your crawl space from the earth and creates more stable crawl space conditions. Along with experiencing warmer floors, you could save approximately 18% on your energy bills with encapsulation.
7. Use Space Heaters Wisely
For rooms you use frequently, consider using a space heater and lowering the central heating temperature. This can be more efficient than heating your entire home to a higher temperature.
8. Utilize Natural Sunlight
Open curtains and blinds during the day to let sunlight warm your home naturally. Close them at night to add an extra layer of insulation against the cold.
9. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Install a programmable thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away from home. Even a few degrees can make a big difference in your energy consumption.
10. Use Your Fireplace Efficiently and Safely
A fireplace can be a great source of warmth and ambiance during winter, but it’s important to use it efficiently and safely:
- Keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use to prevent warm air from escaping the chimney.
- Install glass doors on your fireplace to prevent heated air from escaping.
- Use a fireplace insert to increase heating efficiency.
- Ensure your chimney is clean and inspected annually to prevent chimney fires.
- Always use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room.
- Never leave a fire unattended, and ensure it’s completely out before going to bed.
- Install and regularly check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Regularly inspect your chimney for cracks and gaps.
By implementing these energy-saving tips, you can keep your home warm and comfortable while reducing your heating costs this winter. Remember, small changes can add up to significant savings over time, benefiting both your wallet and the environment.
Trust Groundworks for Helpful Energy-Saving Solutions
While these tips can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency and warmth during winter, some issues require professional expertise. As home repair and improvement specialists, Groundworks’ services, including crawl space encapsulation, can enhance your home’s energy efficiency and overall comfort.
A well-maintained and energy-efficient home saves you money on heating costs and can enhance your property value, creating a more comfortable living environment for you and your family. Don’t wait for the cold to set in. Contact Groundworks today to schedule a free inspection and start your journey towards a warmer, more efficient home this winter.
FAQs
Yes, foundation problems can create gaps and cracks that allow cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape. Addressing foundation issues with Groundworks can improve your home’s overall insulation and energy efficiency.
Yes, proper crawl space insulation can significantly reduce energy bills by preventing heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.
While some homeowners may choose to install insulation themselves, it’s often best to hire a professional to ensure proper installation and address any underlying issues.
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