12 Ways to Reduce My Heating Costs During the Winter Months

Temperatures can drop fast in Arlington once October arrives. Although the days in fall can be beautiful, the nights become uncomfortably chilly fast.

If you’re like most homeowners, heating costs make up a significant portion of your household's energy bill during this time of year. Natural gas is not as cheap as it used to be, and even families that utilize energy-efficient heat pumps can benefit from finding ways to reduce their heating costs during the colder months in Texas.

Thankfully, there are a variety of practical steps to help your home better retain heat. Some of these are extremely low cost, while others may require a bit of an investment. The good news is that even the pricier options have ancillary benefits, like increasing home value.

1. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings: The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime in winter and lowering it while you're asleep or away from home. In Arlington, the mild winter temperatures make this a comfortable starting point. Programmable or smart thermostats can automate these adjustments for you, ensuring you don't waste money heating an empty house.

2. Seal Leaks and Drafts: Gaps in doors and windows can let out precious warm air. Use weather-stripping or caulk to seal these leaks. DIYers should have no problem taking these basic draft-proofing tasks on their own. You may also want to consider consulting with Tom’s Mechanical on our OptiHome attic insulation services, which can help eliminate a significant source of heat loss.

3. Utilize Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can be used to your advantage even in winter. By setting them to run clockwise at a low speed, you can pull cold air up and push the warmer air that naturally rises down into the living spaces.

4. Embrace Natural Heat: Take advantage of sunny days, which are plentiful in Arlington, even during winter. Open curtains during the day to let the sunlight naturally heat your home, and then close them at night to keep the warmth inside.

5. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Before the cold sets in, have Tom's Mechanical service your heating system. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, uses less energy and reduces the likelihood of expensive repairs.

6. Replace Air Filters: Dirty air filters restrict airflow and increase energy demand. Check your filters monthly and replace them at least every three months.

7. Consider a Home Performance Evaluation: Our Arlington HVAC professionals can perform comprehensive home performance evaluations to identify specific areas where your home is losing heat and suggest ways to improve energy efficiency.

8. Dress for the Season: Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. Wearing warmer clothing indoors allows you to feel comfortable even with the thermostat set at a lower temperature.

9. Use Alternative Heating Sources Wisely: Fireplaces aren’t just for ambience. Although they’re not typically effective for whole-home heating, a fireplace can supplement heat in common areas where they’re located and reduce the strain on your furnace.

10. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows: If you're in an older home with single-pane windows, consider upgrading to double-pane or triple-pane windows designed for energy efficiency. While the initial investment is higher, the energy savings can be significant over the life of the window.

11. Insulate Water Pipes: Insulating your hot water pipes limits heat loss and can raise the water temperature 2°F to 4°F compared to uninsulated pipes, allowing for a lower water temperature setting. This can also reduce the risk of pipes bursting in the coldest part of winter, which can save you money on repairs or deductibles (not to mention the headache of filing a claim).

12. Consider Upgrading Your HVAC System: If your heating system is older, it may be time for an energy-efficient upgrade. Tom's Mechanical can assess your current central air heating system and suggest energy-efficient models that could substantially lower your heating costs.

Do You Want to Spend Less on Heating Your Home This Winter?

Reducing heating costs during the fall and winter months in Arlington, TX doesn't have to be complicated. The team at Tom’s Mechanical can help you create a more energy-efficient home that preserves your comfort without straining your budget. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve this balance with professional advice and services. Get in touch with us by calling (817) 277-4493.