Saving Money and Staying Warm This Winter

 

Cut Costs and Stay Warm This Winter

Winter is in full swing and if you’ve noticed your heating bills creeping (or rocketing) upward, you’re not alone. As February brings some of the coldest days of the season, now is the perfect time to make smart adjustments to make it through until spring without draining your wallet. Any tips that you implement will show their benefit immediately, allowing you to double down on the most important changes for maximum effectiveness at minimum cost. 

 

Whether your goal is to reduce energy waste, lower heating costs or improve efficiency, these practical tips can help you stay comfortable and save money as we move through the rest of winter, as well as provide some important tips on what to avoid.

 

Smart Ways to Cut Costs and Stay Warm

Lower Your Thermostat and Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Every degree you lower your thermostat in the winter will save you money on your heating bill. Set your thermostat lower while you sleep or when you’re away. A programmable or smart thermostat automates these temperature adjustments, taking the effort and attention out of saving money.

 

Invest in an Electric Mattress Pad for Cozy, Efficient Warmth

Instead of turning up the heat at night, consider using an electric mattress pad or heated blanket to stay warm while you sleep. These alternatives provide targeted warmth and use significantly less electricity than heating an entire home overnight.

 

Seal Windows and Doors to Prevent Drafts

Drafty windows and doors let cold air in and force your heating system to work harder. Use weatherstripping, caulk or plastic film insulation kits to seal leaks and keep your home warm without overworking your heater.

 

Add Extra Insulation in Attics, Attic Hatch, Walls, Garage Doors and Pipes

Poor insulation is one of the biggest contributors to heat loss. Adding insulation to your attic, walls and garage doors helps to slow heat loss, reducing the amount of energy needed to warm your home. Insulating hot water pipes can also help maintain water temperature, cutting down on energy costs and the risk of frozen pipes.

 

Let the Sunlight In During the Day for Natural Heat

Take advantage of free solar heat by opening curtains and blinds on south-facing windows during the day. This helps naturally warm your home, reducing reliance on your heating system. At night, close curtains to provide another layer of insulation to slow your house’s loss of heat.

 

Bake More at Home to Warm Your Kitchen and Save on Food Costs

Using your stove or oven for cooking can provide a dual benefit: it heats your kitchen while saving money on dining out or ordering in. Cooking or baking meals helps reduce food expenses and a warm kitchen is a welcome side effect.

 

Use More and Better Blankets Instead of Cranking Up the Heat

Rather than turning up the thermostat, layer up with thicker blankets, heated throws and fleece bedding. Wearing thermal socks and extra layers indoors can also make a big difference in keeping you warm without increasing costs.

 

Maintain and Clear Your Fireplace or Seal It if Unused

If you have a working fireplace, ensure it’s professionally cleaned and maintained to operate efficiently. It’s worth pointing out that fireplaces typically cause heat loss in a home, since the warm air is pulled out of the house and replaced However, if you don’t use your fireplace, seal it off with a chimney balloon, damper or a DIY foamboard insulation solution to prevent warm air from escaping and cold drafts from entering.

 

Use Two-Zone Heating for More Efficient Energy Use

If your home has two-zone heating, adjust settings for different parts of the house to optimize efficiency. Keep less frequently used areas at a lower temperature while keeping main living spaces warm where you spend the most time.

 

Take Advantage of Free Energy Audits from Your Utility Company

Some utility companies offer free or low-cost energy audits to help homeowners identify inefficiencies and energy-wasting areas in their homes. An energy audit can help to pinpoint air leaks, insulation gaps and outdated appliances that may be driving up your energy costs. By following the audit’s recommendations, you can make targeted improvements that increase comfort and save on energy bills.

 

Perform Regular Maintenance on Your Heating System

A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently and lasts longer, helping you save on both energy bills and costly repairs. Schedule an annual tune-up with an HVAC professional to clean filters, check for leaks and ensure your system is running at peak performance. Replacing air filters regularly (every 1-3 months as needed) also improves airflow and efficiency, reducing strain on your heating system.

 

Dress in Layers to Stay Comfortable

Instead of cranking up the thermostat, dress warmly indoors by layering sweaters, fleece and thermal socks. Wearing multiple layers retains body heat, keeping you comfortable while allowing you to keep your home at a lower temperature. Providing yourself with a base layer of wool or another moisture-wicking material will help you maintain a stable temperature.

 

Unplug Unused Electronics

Even when turned off, many electronics continue drawing power, adding unnecessary costs to your electricity bill. Unplug unused appliances, chargers and electronics to avoid this "phantom energy" drain. 

 

Heat Rooms You Use Most and Unused Spaces Less

If you have rooms that aren’t frequently used, like guest bedrooms or storage areas, there’s no need to heat them fully. Reducing the heat sent to those rooms allows your heating system can focus on keeping occupied areas warm. Using space heaters in small, high-traffic rooms can also help target warmth without overheating your entire home.

 

Use Curtains Strategically—Open for Sunlight, Close for Insulation

Windows can either help or hurt your home’s heating efficiency. During the day, open curtains on south-facing windows to let in natural sunlight, a cheerful way to add some warmth to your home for free. At night, close curtains or insulated drapes to trap heat inside, reducing heat loss through windows. Using thermal or blackout curtains provides an extra layer of insulation, further cutting down on heating costs.

 

Common Mistakes That Waste Energy and Money

Even with the best energy-saving strategies, certain mistakes can drain your wallet and make your home less efficient or have catastrophic consequences, such as burst pipes. Avoid these common pitfalls to maximize warmth and minimize costs this winter.

 

Don’t Let Your Pipes Freeze—Insulate Them and Keep a Steady Drip in Extreme Cold

Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive water damage, leading to costly repairs. Insulate exposed pipes in basements, attics, next to exterior walls and outdoor spigots to keep them from freezing. During extreme cold snaps, let a small trickle of water flow from interior faucets to prevent ice buildup. This simple precaution costs pennies but can save thousands in plumbing repairs.

 

Don’t Use Space Heaters Proper Safety Precautions

Space heaters can provide targeted warmth, but they also pose serious burn or fire hazards if used improperly or around small children. Keep them at least three feet away from flammable objects and ensure proper ventilation for gas-powered models. When possible, it’s safer to choose other solutions mentioned above.

 

Don’t Block Air Vents with Furniture or Curtains

Heating vents and radiators need clear areas around them in order to distribute warm air efficiently. Blocking vents with furniture, rugs or curtains forces your heating system to work harder, increasing energy waste and heating costs. Arrange furniture to keep vents unobstructed and allow warm air to circulate freely.

 

Don’t Overheat Your Water Heater—Lower the Temperature for Savings

Many water heaters are set too high by default, leading to unnecessary energy consumption. Lowering the temperature to 120°F (49°C) can reduce heating costs while still providing hot water for daily use. 

 

Don’t Leave Doors Open Any Longer Than Necessary

Every time you leave a door open, warm air escapes and cold air rushes in, forcing your heating system to work harder. Keep exterior doors closed as much as possible and avoid leaving the garage door open for extended periods, as garages are often unheated and poorly insulated.

 

Don’t Neglect Furnace and HVAC Maintenance—A Dirty System Wastes Energy

Skipping regular furnace maintenance leads to dust buildup, inefficient performance and higher energy bills. Replace air filters every 1-3 months to improve airflow and schedule an annual HVAC checkup to ensure your system runs smoothly all winter long. A well-maintained furnace can reduce energy waste and extend the lifespan of your heating unit.

 

Don’t Ignore Air Leaks—Small Drafts Can Significantly Raise Heating Costs

Even tiny air leaks around windows, doors and vents can let in cold air and drive up heating costs. Use caulk, weather stripping or foam insulation to seal gaps and prevent heat loss. A well-sealed home is more comfortable and energy-efficient all year long.

 

Don’t Overuse Space Heaters—They’re Costly and Can Be Hazardous

Space heaters are an inefficient way to heat your home—they use a lot of electricity and can significantly increase your energy bill. Use them sparingly and instead focus on improving insulation, layering up and maximizing central heating efficiency for long-term savings.

 

Don’t Run Exhaust Fans Longer Than Needed

Kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans remove warm air from your home. Only run them for a short period after cooking or showering, then turn them off to keep heated air inside.

 

Stay Warm While Keeping Costs Down

Even though winter is well underway, it’s never too late to start saving on energy costs. Small changes—like sealing drafts, adjusting your thermostat and using energy-efficient habits—can make a big difference on your utility bills. By avoiding common heating mistakes and implementing cost-saving strategies, you can maximize comfort, minimize expenses and make the most of the season. 

 

Looking for financial solutions to help with home upgrades and energy-efficient improvements? Ideal Credit Union is here to help, contact us today!