Winter’s coming, and that means you may need to heat your home more often than at any other time of year. However, nobody wants to see their heating bills go through the roof. The good news is that you can stay comfortable without spending a fortune. The trick is to make sure your furnace works as efficiently as possible and implement some good habits.

Give Your Furnace Some Well-Deserved Attention

While your furnace is largely out of sight and out of mind because it’s hidden away in a utility closet or basement, it needs some attention from time to time. You should schedule an HVAC technician to come to your home and give your furnace a good once-over every year, usually before you start relying on it for the season. They can look for any issues and ensure that everything is running smoothly. This can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your furnace working at its best.

Team Up With Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is like the control center for your heating system, so it’s crucial that you use it wisely. With a programmable thermostat, you can set it to automatically lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away from home. Even a few degrees can have a noticeable effect on your energy usage.

Let There Be Light (and Heat!)

On sunny days, open your curtains and blinds to let the sunshine in. It might not seem like much, but the rays of the sun can actually help warm up your home. Don’t forget to close them back up when the sun goes down to keep the warmth from escaping.

Dress for the Occasion

This might seem silly, but dressing warmly indoors can actually help you save on heating costs. Put on a sweater, some cozy socks or even a blanket. You might be surprised how much warmer you feel. This way, you can keep the thermostat a little lower and still be comfortable.

Seal Those Gaps

Check around your windows and doors for any drafts. Even small cracks can let them into your home. You can use weather stripping or caulk to seal up these gaps and keep the warm air inside where it belongs.

Consider an Upgrade

If your furnace is getting old and requires frequent repairs, it’s time to think about replacing it with a newer, more efficient model. Newer furnaces are usually much better at using energy wisely. This can save you a significant amount on your heating bills over time. It might seem like a big expense upfront, but it can really pay off in the long run.

Taking care of your furnace and using it correctly can really reduce your energy bills. Putting these tips into action will enable you to stay comfortable throughout the heating season without spending a fortune. For help keeping your Tampa Bay, FL heating system in top shape, reach out to the team at Cornerstone Pros.