Little-Known Heating Hacks to Save Money and Keep Warm

As temperatures drop, staying warm becomes a top priority. However, with rising energy costs, keeping your home comfortable can feel costly. Fortunately, there are numerous lesser-known heating  hacks that can help you stay cozy while saving money. Incorporating these tips can make your winter both budget-friendly and comfortable.

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Block Off Unused Rooms

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If you have rooms you rarely use, close them off to conserve heat. Shut doors, seal vents, and use draft stoppers to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering occupied spaces. This simple step prioritizes heat distribution where it’s needed most.

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Reverse Your Ceiling Fan's Direction

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Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. Many models have a reverse switch that allows the blades to spin clockwise (you’ll want to switch it back to counterclockwise during the warmer months). This motion pulls cool air up and pushes warm air down into the room.

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Harness the Power of Sunlight

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Even during winter, the sun’s rays can help warm your home.

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• Open South-Facing Window Coverings During the Day: Let sunlight stream in to naturally heat your space.

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• Close Window Coverings at Night: Trap the day’s heat and block drafts.

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• Use Thermal or Insulating Window Treatments: These add an extra layer of warmth and reduce heat loss.

Leverage Your Oven and Stove

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Cooking can double as a heating strategy:

• Leave the Oven Door Open After Cooking: Let residual heat warm your kitchen.

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• Simmer Soups and Stews: These comforting meals also release warmth and humidity into the air.

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Add Humidity to the Air

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Humidity enhances the sensation of warmth, making lower temperatures feel more comfortable. Boost indoor humidity with these methods:

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• Use a Humidifier: A humidifier can make a 68°F room feel closer to 72°F.

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• Add Houseplants: Plants naturally increase humidity through transpiration.

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• Simmer Water on the Stove: A simple pot of simmering water can release moisture into the air.

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‍Cover Exposed Flooring with Rugs

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Many floor types, such as tile, laminate, and hardwood, can allow for heat loss. Additionally, a cold floor isn't beneficial for your comfort, especially at home. Adding a rug or carpet can be a simple way to improve insulation and increase coziness.

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Seal Air Leaks

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Even small gaps can cause significant heat loss. Address these areas to keep warm air in:

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• Inspect Windows and Doors: Check for drafts and seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk.

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• Check Electrical Outlets: Install foam gaskets behind outlet covers to block cold air.

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• Add Door Sweeps: Prevent drafts by attaching door sweeps to exterior doors.

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Insulate

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Proper insulation is one of the most effective ways to retain heat in your home. Proper insulation doesn't just save money; it also makes your home significantly more comfortable during the cold months.

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• Ensure Adequate Attic Insulation: Prevent heat from escaping through the roof.

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• Upgrade Wall Insulation: Improve insulation in exterior walls for better efficiency.

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• Insulate Hot Water Pipes: Minimize heat loss from pipes to reduce water heating costs.

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Optimize Your HVAC System

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Your heating system works hard all winter, so keeping it in top shape is essential. Here are some maintenance tips:

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• Replace Air Filters Regularly: Maintaining clean filters helps your HVAC system operate efficiently.

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• Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance: Regular tune-ups and inspections keep your system performing at its best.

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• Explore Zoning Options: Direct heat only to frequently used areas for better efficiency.

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Invest in a Smart Thermostat

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Smart thermostats can, on average, decrease heating costs by 10-12 percent on heating (and 15 percent on cooling). Benefits include:

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• Programmable Schedules: Lower temperatures when no one is home and preheat before returning.

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• Usage Monitoring: Identify and reduce unnecessary heating.

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• Remote Control: Adjust temperatures from anywhere via a smartphone app.

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Conclusion

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Staying warm this winter doesn’t have to mean high heating bills. By adopting these clever heating hacks, you can create an energy-efficient, cost-effective home that keeps the cold at bay.

Have more questions? Don't hesitate to contact our responsive customer service team at (978) 750-8282 or preferredairinc@outlook.com; we'll help you find the right solution for your home or business.

Preferred Air has been offering trusted service for 33 years. We'd love to have you join our community by scheduling a service or a complimentary professional system evaluation and estimate for upgrades or replacements of your current system with our factory-trained expert technicians.

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