10 Intelligent Strategies to Reduce Your Heating Costs This Winter

As the chilly weather sets in, your heating expenses are likely climbing rapidly. With several months of cold ahead, it’s essential to manage your heating usage efficiently. Discover practical tips for both renters and homeowners to stay warm without relying solely on layers of sweaters and blankets throughout the winter.

Apply Shrink Wrap to Your Windows

Plastic wrap serves as a budget-friendly insulation option to prevent drafts from windows, according to Thomas Baker, building technology editor at This Old House magazine, who shared this tip with Mytour in 2016. Baker recommended purchasing a kit (available at stores like Home Depot) to simplify the DIY process.

Insulate the Attic

“Approximately 68% of heat loss occurs through the attic ceiling, while only 20% is lost through walls and 10% through doors and windows,” explained Anthony Stonis, president of Building Energy Experts in Crystal Lake, Illinois. “This is why sealing the attic offers a quicker return on investment.”

Apply Weatherstripping to Window Frames

According to Stonis, the inefficiency often lies not in the window itself but in its installation. Fortunately, this issue is easily resolved: he recommends applying caulk around the windows during winter.

Install Curtains

The U.S. Department of Energy states that adding curtains to windows can cut heat loss by 10%. Opting for floor-length curtains that can be pinned together and secured to walls with Velcro or magnets can increase heat retention to 25%. The strategy is to open the curtains during sunny hours to allow heat in and close them after sunset.

Seal Your Home’s Foundation

While this task may require professional assistance, both homeowners and renters can request air sealing for their foundation, attic, and areas around plumbing and electrical entrances to prevent conditioned air (heated or cooled) from escaping. “In colder regions, properly installing insulation to meet local housing codes, combined with air sealing, significantly reduces energy costs,” explained David Lee, Residential Program Supervisor for the Building Technologies Office at the Department of Energy. “Beyond cost savings, this also enhances indoor comfort.”

Prevent Air Leaks Around Electrical Outlets

Baker noted that warm air can escape through outlets on exterior walls. To address this, insulate your electrical outlets by attaching foam gaskets to the back of outlet plates and using child-safe plug covers to fill the receptacles.

Opt for Energy-Star Certified Appliances

Lee points out that heating, cooling, and water heating account for over half of a home’s average energy usage. To reduce costs, he suggests prioritizing these areas. One effective step is upgrading outdated appliances to Energy Star-certified models for better efficiency.

Conduct a Home Energy Audit or Assessment

Lee explains that an audit helps homeowners analyze their energy consumption, pinpoint issues, and find solutions. Check if Energy Star offers home performance audits in your region. “An Energy Star contractor will conduct a comprehensive audit and suggest ways to enhance your home’s energy efficiency,” Lee noted. “These upgrades can often reduce energy bills by 20 to 30 percent.”

Lower the Thermostat Setting

Baker explained that reducing the temperature by one degree for eight hours saves 1% on heating costs. Adjust the thermostat when you’re asleep or away, though this doesn’t apply to radiant heating systems due to the extended time needed to warm up a cooled room.

Invest in a Smart Thermostat

Smart home systems like Nest or Honeywell learn your daily routines and adjust the heat automatically when you’re away, leading to significant savings on heating costs. According to Nest, users save an average of 12% on heating and 15% on cooling annually, allowing the system to pay for itself within a few years.