How to Lower Your Heating Bill This Winter

Keeping your home comfortable during a Pacific Northwest winter can be expensive, especially when the temperatures dip for weeks at a time. While some degree of heating cost is unavoidable, there are several proven strategies to help you lower your heating bill without sacrificing comfort. Below, I’ll share practical steps you can take all season long to help save on energy and enjoy a warm, cozy home.

Seal Air Leaks and Improve Home Insulation

One of the main reasons for higher-than-necessary heating bills is unwanted heat loss. Even small air leaks around windows, doors, and walls can add up quickly.

• Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal any gaps around windows and door frames.

• Consider outlet sealers and draft stoppers for electrical outlets or under doors.

• Inspect your attic and basement for signs of inadequate insulation; adding or replacing insulation can make a significant difference.

• If you have older windows, consider upgrading to double-pane or adding thermal window coverings for extra protection.

A well-insulated home retains heat much better, reducing the amount your heating and air conditioning system needs to work.

Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

Adjusting how and when your heat runs can produce noticeable savings:

• Lower your thermostat by just a few degrees, aim for 68°F when you’re home and awake, and turn it down even further at night or when you’re away.

• If you often forget to make these adjustments, installing a smart thermostat can help. These devices allow programmable temperature settings that automatically lower your usage when it’s not needed.

• According to the Department of Energy, dropping your thermostat by 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day can save up to 10% a year on heating.

Make Use of Sunlight and Manage Curtains Efficiently

Harnessing natural resources is an easy, cost-free way to warm your home:

• Open south-facing blinds and curtains during the day to let in free solar warmth.

• Close shades, blinds, and insulated curtains at night to trap heat inside and block drafts from cold windows.

• For draftier windows, thermal curtains or adding clear plastic window film can help provide additional insulation.

This approach maximizes the sun’s warmth and minimizes heat escape when it’s dark or cloudy.

Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

Routine service is critical for any heating system’s efficiency and longevity:

• Arrange for a professional furnace maintenance service every year; this can catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs and keep your system running efficiently.

• Replace or clean HVAC air filters regularly, dirty filters block airflow and make your system use more energy.

• Ductwork should also be checked for leaks, as up to 30% of heated air can escape through unsealed ducts.

Well-maintained systems not only save you money but also help maintain safe and healthy indoor air quality.

Adopt Smart Heating Habits

Lifestyle changes can further reduce heating costs:

• Dress in warm layers and use cozy blankets instead of increasing the thermostat.

• Use space heaters efficiently; only heat the rooms you’re using and make sure they are used safely.

• Keep vents and radiators clear from furniture to allow warmth to circulate throughout each room.

At night, add a humidifier. Moist air feels warmer and lets you keep your thermostat lower without sacrificing comfort.

Take the Next Step: Schedule Your Heating Assessment

Ready to Lower Your Heating Bill in Portland, OR? Contact Three Rivers Heating and Cooling

If you want to be certain your home is running as efficiently as possible this winter, Three Rivers Heating and Cooling is here to help. Our team provides comprehensive heating and air conditioning services, including maintenance, installation, and energy efficiency solutions tailored for the Portland, OR area. Give us a call at 503-739-5400 or fill out our convenient online contact form to schedule your appointment today. Let us show you how you can stay warm and keep more of your money this season.