How to Lower Your Heating Bill This Winter: 12 Fixes That Actually Work

When the weather turns cold, your heating bill is usually the first one to jump. The good news is that you do not need to shiver to save money. Most homes lose a surprising amount of warmth through small gaps, old settings and wasted heat, and many fixes cost less than a dinner out. This guide gives you 12 practical ways to lower your heating bill this winter, starting with the cheapest and easiest.

Fix 1: Turn the thermostat down a little

The U.S. Department of Energy says you can save about 10 percent a year on heating and cooling by turning your thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day, such as while you sleep or at work. You do not have to be cold at home. Instead, set a comfortable temperature when you are awake and a lower one when nobody is using the house.

Fix 2: Use a programmable or smart thermostat

A programmable thermostat does the lowering for you, so you never forget. Smart models learn your schedule, and you can adjust them from your phone, which is helpful if your plans change. They are also easy to install in many homes, but check that yours is compatible with your heating system. See smart thermostats on Amazon

Fix 3: Seal the drafts

Gaps around doors and windows let warm air escape. On a cold day, hold your hand near the edges of windows and doors to feel for a draft. Weatherstripping tape and door sweeps are cheap and easy to put on. See weatherstripping on Amazon

Fix 4: Use draft stoppers for the bottom of doors

A simple draft stopper or door sweep blocks the cold air that slips under doors. Renters like them because they do not need tools, and they come off when you move. See door draft stoppers on Amazon

Fix 5: Add window insulation film

Windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss. A clear plastic insulation film, applied with a hair dryer, adds an extra layer of air and is nearly invisible. It is a good option for older single-pane windows. See window insulation kits on Amazon

Fix 6: Use curtains the smart way

Thick, lined curtains reduce heat loss at night. Open them during the day on sunny windows so the sun warms the room for free, then close them as the sun sets. See thermal curtains on Amazon

Fix 7: Replace the furnace filter

A dirty filter makes your system work harder. Check it monthly during the heating season, and replace it when it looks gray. This takes two minutes and costs very little.

Fix 8: Do not block the vents

Couches, rugs and curtains over a vent or radiator trap heat where you do not need it. Move furniture a few inches away so warm air can flow into the room.

Fix 9: Heat the person, not the house

If you spend most of the evening in one room, a small space heater can be cheaper than heating the whole home, as long as you use it safely. Choose a model with a tip-over switch and automatic shut-off, and plug it directly into the wall, never an extension cord. See safe space heaters on Amazon

Fix 10: Stay cozy with the right layers

A warm blanket, thick socks and a sweater let you feel comfortable at a lower setting. A heated throw uses much less electricity than turning up the whole house. See heated blankets on Amazon Our guide to cozy gifts for winter has more ideas.

Fix 11: Use ceiling fans in reverse

Most ceiling fans have a switch that runs the blades clockwise at low speed in winter. This pushes warm air down from the ceiling without creating a breeze.

Fix 12: Check for help with costs

If your bill is a real struggle, look for assistance. In the U.S., the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible households with heating costs, and many utility companies offer budget billing plans that spread costs evenly across the year. Contact your provider and ask what programs are available.

How much can you really save?

Savings depend on your home, climate and fuel type, so it is hard to promise a number. Even so, combining a few of these fixes, such as a lower night setting, sealed drafts and window covers, can make a noticeable difference. Track your bill from month to month so you can see which change helps the most. For more ways to cut costs, see our guide to saving $1,000 fast and our holiday budget plan.