Winter Heating Tips: How to Save Energy and Reduce Costs

As the winter season sets in, depending on where you live, heating your home could account for up to 42% of your total energy usage, with a significant portion coming from non-renewable sources. With sustainable heating practices becoming more important than ever, finding ways to save heat energy not only helps the environment but also reduces your heating costs. 

To help Greystar residents stay warm while still saving on utility bills, here are a few of our winter heating tips.

 

1)  Reuse Oven Heat for Maximum Efficiency

Reusing oven heat is one of the simplest and most sustainable home heating strategies for your kitchen. After baking, don’t let the warmth from your oven go to waste! Leave the oven door slightly open to allow heat to circulate through your kitchen and warm up nearby areas. Just be sure to never leave the oven on for extended periods of time as a primary heating source. 

2)  Skip the Fireplace for Better Energy Efficiency

While fireplaces can create a cozy ambiance, they are not always the most sustainable heating option. Traditional gas fireplaces often consume more energy than central heating. Instead, consider using energy-efficient alternatives like electric fireplaces or space heaters that provide better control over heat usage while keeping your energy bills in check.

 

3)  Set Your Thermostat to a Lower Temperature

To save on heating costs, try lowering your thermostat by one or two degrees. A temperature setting of 55°F at night and 60°F during the day, for example, can offer both comfort and energy savings. Lowering the thermostat slightly reduces your energy consumption without compromising warmth—just avoid setting it too low to prevent risks like frozen pipes.

 

4)  Maintain a Steady Temperature Throughout the Day

Large temperature fluctuations can lead to higher energy bills. Setting your thermostat to turn off when you leave or lowering it drastically overnight makes your heating system work harder to warm your home back up. Instead, try to maintain a steady temperature throughout the day. Using a programmable thermostat ensures your home stays at an ideal temperature without unnecessary energy waste. If you don’t have one already, ask your community management team if programmable thermostats can be installed in your apartment.

5)  Use a Space Heater in Smaller Areas

In some cases, using a small space heater may be more energy-efficient than heating your entire apartment. If you’re spending time in one room, a space heater can warm that space quickly without running the central heating system. This is a great way to reduce heating costs while ensuring you stay comfortable in smaller, frequently-used spaces.

 

6)  Install Heavy Curtains for Extra Insulation

Curtains can easily help save heat energy. Heavy curtains or thermal drapes can reduce heat loss through windows, keeping warm air inside. Just be sure to check with your property management team before installing floor-to-ceiling curtains in your apartment.

 

7)  Place Rugs on Cold Floors for Added Comfort

Hard floors, such as tile, wood, or laminate, can feel cold during the winter, which increases your reliance on heating systems. By placing rugs or carpets in high-traffic areas, you can save on heating costs by insulating your floors. This small addition can make a big difference in your apartment’s overall comfort level.

 

8)  Allow Your Body to Acclimate to the Cold

Your body naturally adjusts to colder temperatures over time, so try to let it acclimate by gradually lowering your thermostat as the season progresses. Open a window for a short time each day to let fresh air in and allow your body to adjust. 

 

9) Dress in Layers to Stay Warm

Instead of immediately reaching for the thermostat, consider layering in warm clothing like wool sweaters and thermal socks. In addition, consider using flannel sheets and throwing an extra blanket on your bed. Layering helps trap body heat, keeping you comfortable without constantly adjusting the temperature. This is an effective strategy to save on heating costs and reduce your energy use without sacrificing comfort.

 

Additional Winter Heating Tips to Consider

• Seal drafts. Check windows and doors for drafts and use weather stripping or caulk to seal any leaks. Small drafts can result in big energy losses, especially during the cold months.
• Regular furnace maintenance. Keep your heating system in top condition with regular maintenance, such as replacing filters and cleaning ducts. An efficient furnace consumes less energy, ensuring that you’re saving heat energy.
• Energy-efficient appliances. Upgrade to energy-efficient heating appliances and water heaters. Models with Energy Star certification use less energy while providing the same level of heating.

Get Cozy With Greystar

At Greystar, we understand the importance of being comfortable in your home. That’s why we strive to provide residents with the appliances and maintenance support they need to stay warm all winter long, in addition to tips that can help you reduce monthly costs! 

By implementing these sustainable heating practices, you can stay warm while lowering your energy bills. Explore more ideas for greener living on our blog. 



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