Stay Warm, Save Money: How to Cut Heating Costs

Nobody wants a giant heating bill. The good news: you can keep warm this winter without burning through your budget.

Why it matters: Heating costs add up fast. Smart upgrades and simple habits can keep your home warmer, lower bills, and increase long-term efficiency.

1. Try a Smart Thermostat

• Programmable thermostats adjust to fit your schedule.

• Reducing usage when you are away or asleep can save 10 percent or more on heating costs.

2. Try Zone Heating

• Heat only the rooms you use with space heaters or zoned thermostats.

• Close vents in unused rooms to avoid wasting energy.

3. Use Ceiling Fans in Reverse

• Set fans to spin clockwise on low in winter.

• This pushes warm air down and keeps rooms comfortable without raising the thermostat.

4. Insulate and Weatherproof

• Check attics, basements, and crawl spaces for insulation gaps.

• Weatherstrip doors and windows to block leaks.

• Seal drafty outlets and switches on exterior walls with caulk, foam sealant and gaskets.

• Even small upgrades can save hundreds annually.

5. Stop Heat Loss from the Chimney

• Fireplaces feel cozy when lit, but unused chimneys leak heat.

• A chimney balloon blocks warm air from escaping when the fireplace is off.

6. Use the Sun

• Open curtains during the day to let sunlight in, especially on south-facing windows.

• Close them at night to block drafts. Thermal curtains boost insulation.

• Energy-efficient windows can cut heating and cooling costs by up to 15 percent.

Bottom line: With the right mix of technology, insulation, and everyday habits, you can stay comfortable this winter without overspending.

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