As summer gives way to fall, your heating system quickly becomes one of the most important parts of your home. But keeping warm all winter doesn’t have to mean sky-high utility bills. With a few smart strategies, you can stay cozy while also saving energy and money during the heating season. Here’s how:

1. Schedule a Heating System Tune-Up

One of the best ways to save energy – and money – is to make sure your furnace or heat pump is running at peak efficiency. A professional tune-up before winter starts can uncover small problems and enable us to make adjustments that help your system operate with greater efficiency and reliability. An efficient system uses less energy and is far less likely to break down when you need it most.

2. Replace or Clean Air Filters Regularly

Dirty furnace filters restrict airflow, making your heating system work harder than necessary. This not only drives up energy use but can also shorten the life of your system. Check your filters every month during heating season and replace them as needed – usually every one to three months.

3. Seal Drafts and Insulate

Heat loss is one of the biggest causes of higher-than-necessary energy bills. To cut back and put some of that money back in your pocket, periodically seal gaps around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping to keep warm air in and cold air out. Adding insulation in your attic, walls, or basement can also make a big difference, allowing your home to retain more heat with less effort from your furnace.

4. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Heating your home when no one’s around is an obvious waste of energy, but a mistake that’s commonly made. So, make today the day you commit to replace your conventional thermostat with a programmable model, one that will help you reduce indoor air temperatures while you’re away or asleep. You can also pre-set your thermostat to raise the temps while you’re home, or soon to be. Smart thermostats go a step further by learning your habits and making automatic adjustments to maximize comfort and energy efficiency.

5. Adjust the Thermostat Wisely

Since even one degree makes a difference in energy consumption and the price you pay for it, lowering your thermostat just two or three degrees can lead to substantial savings. Instead of cranking the heat, consider layering up with sweaters, socks, and cozy blankets.

6. Take Advantage of Sunlight

On sunny days, open your curtains or blinds to let natural warmth in. At night, close them to provide an extra layer of insulation against the cold.

7. Don’t Block Vents and Radiators

Make sure furniture, curtains, and rugs aren’t obstructing your heating vents or radiators. When airflow is blocked, your system must work harder to keep your home comfortable.

Keep Warm, Spend Less

By combining small daily habits with a few larger home improvements, you can enjoy a warm, comfortable home this winter without the shock of high energy bills. For even greater peace of mind, contact C&D Cooling & Heating today to schedule a heating system tune-up and inspection to help ensure your equipment is ready for cold weather ahead.