5 Ways to Save on Heating Costs This Winter in Houston

As the temperatures drop, heating costs can skyrocket, putting a strain on your budget. Finding ways to reduce heating expenses not only saves money but also helps conserve energy and reduce environmental impact. Here are five effective strategies to keep your home warm without breaking the bank.

1. Seal drafts and improve insulation

• Why it works: Heat escapes through cracks and poorly insulated areas, forcing your heating system to work harder.
• How to implement: Use weather stripping, caulk, or draft stoppers to seal gaps around doors and windows. Adding insulation to your attic and walls can also make a significant difference; you want to have 12” – 14” of insulation.

2. Adjust your Thermostat

• Why it works: Lowering your thermostat by a few degrees can lead to noticeable savings without sacrificing comfort.
• How to implement: Set your thermostat to 68°F when you're home and lower it by 7-10 degrees when you’re asleep or away. A programmable or smart thermostat can automate these adjustments for maximum efficiency.

3. Use ceiling fans to distribute heat

• Why it works: Heat rises, and without proper circulation, warm air gets trapped near the ceiling.
• How to implement: Switch your ceiling fan to its winter setting (clockwise rotation) at a low speed to push warm air down into the living space.

4. Maintain your heating system

• Why it works: A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently and lasts longer.
• How to implement: Schedule annual maintenance for your furnace or heat pump, replace air filters regularly, and ensure vents are unblocked for optimal airflow.

5. Take Advantage of Sunlight

• Why it works: Natural sunlight provides free heat during the day.
  How to implement: Open curtains on south-facing windows to let in sunlight and close them at night to retain warmth. Using thermal curtains can further improve insulation.

Why does it matter?

Reducing heating costs benefits both your wallet and the environment. By using less energy, you lower your utility bills while decreasing your carbon footprint. Over time, small changes add up to significant savings and greater energy efficiency.

Weighing The Effort: The Pros and Cons of Implementing These Changes

Ignoring these cost-saving measures can lead to high utility bills, inefficient heating, and increased wear on your heating system. Additionally, excessive energy consumption contributes to environmental issues. On the other hand, implementing these strategies requires some upfront effort and investment but leads to long-term savings and improved home comfort.
By taking proactive steps to manage heating costs, you can enjoy a warm and cozy home without unnecessary expenses. Start implementing these strategies today and experience the benefits firsthand!

Stay Warm This Winter With Velocity Air’s Houston HVAC Services

If you need help with changing air filters, checking your thermostat, or doing seasonal maintenance on your HVAC unit, make sure to reach out to our team at Velocity Air. We can help you to save time and money by keeping your system running smoothly and efficiently all through the winter.
Velocity Air is proud to provide HVAC maintenance and emergency repair services as well as installation to the Greater Houston Area.