Winter is just around the corner, and as temperatures drop, the urge to crank up the heat increases. However, heating bills can add up quickly, and excessive energy use isn’t great for the environment. Luckily, there are several energy-efficient ways to keep your home cozy without breaking the bank. Here are six strategies to help you stay warm this upcoming winter while reducing your energy consumption.

Strategy One: Seal Drafts and Insulate Properly

A simple and effective strategy to keep your home warm is to ensure it’s well-sealed and insulated. Drafts around doors, windows, and other openings allow cold air to seep in. Here are a few tips to help address this:

  • Check for Drafts: Walk around your home to feel for drafts like near windows, doors, and along the baseboards. Once you find them, you can seal them with weatherstripping, caulk, or draft stoppers.
  • Add Insulation: Check areas like the attic, walls, and basement for proper insulation. Adding insulation to these spaces helps prevent heat loss and keeps warm air inside. 

Strategy Two: Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a great way to regulate your heating more efficiently. It allows you to set the temperature lower when you’re asleep or away, and have it warmer when you’re home.

  • Lower the Temperature When Away: Set your thermostat to automatically lower the temperature by a few degrees when you’re not home, and have it warm up shortly before you return. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting it around 68 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit while you’re home and lower when you’re away or sleeping.
  • Smart Thermostats: Many newer thermostats allow you to control temperatures remotely from your phone. This helps you make quick adjustments without having to be at home, so you only use energy when you need it.

Strategy Three: Harness the Power of the Sun

The sun is a natural, free heat source that can help warm your home even on chilly days.

  • Open Curtains During the Day: Keep curtains open on south-facing windows to allow sunlight to naturally warm up your space. Once the sun goes down, close them to trap the heat inside.
  • Use Insulated Curtains: For extra warmth, consider installing thermal or insulated curtains. These curtains add an extra layer of insulation, helping to keep warm air in and cold air out.

Strategy Four: Maintain Your Heating System

Keeping your heating system in good condition ensures it works efficiently and reduces the risk of sudden breakdowns during cold weather.

  • Schedule Regular Maintenance: Have a professional inspect and clean your heating system before the peak winter season. This can improve efficiency and extend the life of your equipment.
  • Change Filters Monthly: Clogged filters force your heating system to work harder, which increases energy use. Replace or clean your filters regularly for improved airflow and efficiency.

Strategy Five: Layer Up and Use Cozy Textiles

Sometimes, staying warm can feel a little extra cozy by wearing layers of clothing and incorporating home textiles.

  • Wear Layers Indoors: Put on an extra layer of clothing or wrap yourself in a blanket. Warm socks, sweaters, and cozy loungewear can go a long way.
  • Add Rugs and Blankets: Carpets or rugs on hardwood or tile floors help insulate against cold floors. Keep blankets and throws in the living areas for easy access when you want to add warmth without turning up the heat.

Strategy Six: Utilize Low-Cost Financing for Efficiency Upgrades

Upgrading heating equipment, insulation, or air sealing can require a high upfront investment. Fortunately, there are affordable financing options specifically designed to help homeowners make energy-efficient upgrades without a heavy financial burden.

  • Look into Energy Efficiency Loan Programs: Many states and local organizations offer low-interest loans to help homeowners finance improvements like new heating systems, insulation, or energy-efficient windows. In Colorado, for example, the Colorado RENU (Residential Energy Upgrade) Loan Program provides affordable financing for a range of home energy upgrades, making it easier to spread out costs over time.
  • Inquire About Utility Rebates and Incentives: Utility companies offer rebates on energy-efficient appliances, insulation, and heating equipment. These incentives can reduce the overall cost of your upgrades, allowing you to save money upfront and on future energy bills.

By incorporating these energy-efficiency strategies, you can keep your home warm and comfortable this winter while reducing energy use. You may be able to save on heating costs and reduce your environmental footprint. So bundle up, insulate, and embrace the season without worrying about excessive energy bills.

Need to replace your heating system or improve insulation? Check out our residential financing options here available to Colorado homeowners only at this time.