How Can I Keep My Energy Bills Low This Winter?

There’s nothing more frustrating than opening your energy bill and seeing that your costs have doubled or even tripled during the colder months. This winter, you’re determined to keep your home warm without breaking the bank.

At Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping homeowners in South Holland and the surrounding areas with their furnace issues for over 50 years. If you’re ready to reduce your heating bills and take control of your energy costs, here’s where to start:  

• Schedule a professional furnace tune-up
• Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors
• Install a programmable thermostat
• Replace or clean air filters regularly

Let’s dive a little deeper into how these tips—and a little expert help—can make a big difference for your home this winter.

Why Is My Furnace Costing Me So Much Money This Winter?

Your furnace becomes the biggest energy drain when it’s old, dirty, or working inefficiently. An aging system can waste up to 30% more energy than a well-maintained unit, forcing it to run longer cycles and consume more fuel.

Start with a quick DIY check: replace your filter if it appears gray or clogged, listen for unusual noises that may signal mechanical problems, and note if your system cycles on and off frequently. These red flags point to efficiency issues that professional maintenance can often resolve.

A professional tune-up can spot problems before they inflate your bills. When your system runs smoothly, it uses less energy to heat the same space, meaning immediate savings.

Does Turning Down My Thermostat Actually Save Money?

Yes, even dropping your thermostat by 1-2 degrees can reduce heating costs by up to 8%. This small adjustment enables your system to operate more efficiently while maintaining comfortable temperatures.

Set your thermostat to 68°F during the day when you’re home, 65°F at night under warm blankets, and 60-62°F when away for extended periods. Your family will adapt quickly, and your wallet will thank you.

Smart thermostats take this a step further by learning your schedule and automatically adjusting temperatures. They can cut heating costs by 10-15% through precise temperature control and scheduling features.

How Do I Stop Heat from Leaking Out of My Home?

Heat escapes through drafty windows, poorly sealed doors, and inadequate insulation—small leaks that add up to massive energy waste. These problems force your furnace to work harder, cycling more frequently to replace lost warmth.

Quick fixes include adding weatherstripping around doors and windows, sealing ductwork joints with specialized tape, and insulating basements or attics where heat commonly escapes. Even closing curtains at night creates an extra barrier against cold windows.

Focus on the biggest culprits first: check for drafts around entry doors, basement windows, and anywhere you feel cold air sneaking in. These repairs often cost less than one month’s inflated heating bill.

What Heating Strategies Can I Try that Cost Nothing?

Simple changes to how you use your existing system can slash energy costs immediately. Run ceiling fans on reverse (clockwise) to push warm air down from the ceiling, where it naturally rises and gets trapped.

Keep heating vents clear of furniture, rugs, or decorations that block airflow. Close doors to unused rooms, but avoid completely closing vents; this can create pressure imbalances that strain your system.

Layer clothing and use blankets strategically. Wearing a warm sweater indoors allows you to keep the thermostat 2-3 degrees lower while still feeling just as comfortable.

When Should I Call a Professional for My Heating System?

Warning signs that your system is draining energy include constant cycling, uneven heating throughout your home, and systems over 15 years old. These issues indicate efficiency problems that DIY fixes can’t address.

A professional inspection catches problems before they become expensive emergencies. Technicians can repair failing components, clean internal parts that affect efficiency, and make adjustments that improve performance.

Stay Warm Without Breaking Your Budget

Lower winter bills come from combining better habits, simple fixes, and smart professional support. Small changes like adjusting your thermostat and sealing air leaks can cut costs immediately, while professional maintenance protects long-term efficiency.

Don’t let another winter catch you off guard with shocking energy bills. Schedule a furnace tune-up or energy efficiency check with Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning today. With our help, this winter can be warmer, more comfortable, and easier on your budget.