How to Save Money on Heating Bills This Winter in St. Louis

1. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up

Regular furnace maintenance is essential for ensuring your heating system runs efficiently. A well-maintained furnace uses less energy and is less likely to break down during the coldest months. During a tune-up, our HVAC experts in St. Louis will clean components, check for worn parts, and optimize your system for peak performance.

Why It Helps:

• A clean and efficient furnace consumes less energy.
• Prevents costly repairs by catching minor issues early.

2. Seal Drafts and Air Leaks

Drafty windows and doors can let cold air seep into your home, forcing your heating system to work harder. Use weatherstripping and caulking to seal gaps around doors, windows, and other areas where air may escape. Don’t forget to check your attic, as heat can escape through poorly insulated spaces.

Quick Fixes:

• Install door sweeps to block drafts from under doors.
• Use thermal curtains to add insulation to windows.
• Insulate your attic with high-quality materials.

3. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Modern thermostats can significantly reduce your heating bills by giving you greater control over your home’s temperature. A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day, while smart thermostats, can learn your preferences and adjust automatically.

How It Saves Money:

• Lower the heat while you’re away or asleep and let it warm up just before you return.
• Avoid heating empty spaces unnecessarily.

4. Change Your Furnace Filters Regularly

Dirty furnace filters restrict airflow, making your heating system work harder to circulate warm air throughout your home. Replace filters at least every 1-3 months, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.

Benefits:

• Improves airflow and heating efficiency.
• Reduces strain on your system, extending its lifespan.

5. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air

Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer! By switching your fan to rotate clockwise at a low speed, you can push warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into the living space.

Why It Works:

• Keeps your home evenly heated.
• Reduces the need to crank up the thermostat.

6. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Heating System

If your furnace is over 15-20 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. New energy-efficient models, such as high-efficiency furnaces or heat pumps, can save you money in the long run by using less fuel or electricity to heat your home.

Energy Savings:

• Look for systems with high Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings.
• Consider a hybrid system that uses both a furnace and a heat pump for optimal efficiency.

7. Lower Your Thermostat Temperature

You don’t need to keep your thermostat at tropical levels during the winter. Lowering it by just 1-2 degrees can make a noticeable difference in your energy bills without sacrificing comfort. Consider wearing warmer clothing indoors to stay cozy.

Pro Tip:

• Set your thermostat to 68°F while you’re awake and home, and lower it 7-10 degrees while you’re asleep or away.

8. Insulate Your Ductwork

In older St. Louis homes, ducts running through unheated spaces like basements, attics, or crawl spaces can lose heat before it even reaches your vents. Wrapping ductwork with insulation can reduce heat loss and make your system more efficient.

Stay Comfortable and Save Money This Winter

Implementing these energy-saving tips can help you lower your heating bills while keeping your home warm and cozy during the frigid St. Louis winters. If you’re looking for more ways to save money on heating or need assistance with HVAC maintenance, repairs, or system upgrades, Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating is here to help.

Schedule Your Furnace Tune-Up Today!

Contact us at [phone number] or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve St. Louis and surrounding areas, including Ballwin, Affton, Kirkwood, and Chesterfield. Let us help you stay warm and save money this winter!