It’s never too early to start thinking about ways to prepare your home for winter’s cold. Whether you use a boiler, furnace, or wood-burning stove, HVAC contractors know there are a few easy ways to keep your home warm and lower your energy bill.

How to Save on Heating Costs This Winter

1. Seal Up Your Home

You want to make sure warm air stays inside your home. To do this, replace old weather stripping around doors and windows and adjust door thresholds to make sure there are no gaps. You can even install foam gaskets in your home’s electrical outlets to prevent the cold from pouring through.

2. Add Insulation

Additional attic insulation is a sound investment. Whether you’re spraying foam across your attic floor or laying insulation batting, don’t forget to cover the attic door. A lot of cold air can seep through the thin plywood and into your home. You should also examine the exterior of your home and fill any openings with foam insulation.

3. Upgrade Your Thermostat

While there may be a bit of an initial cost, upgrading your thermostats to smart or programmable systems will improve your home’s efficiency and lower heating bills. With these systems, you can power down your system during the day but still have it comfortable by the time everyone gets home.

4. Clear Airflow for Heating Registers

Floor vents are often obstructed by household items. This blockage will also cause your furnace to work harder and wear out faster. Move furniture, rugs, and other objects away from heating registers to keep your home comfortable.

5. Hire an HVAC Contractor for a Furnace Tuneup

Regular furnace maintenance will keep your system running smoothly and efficiently. In addition to annual filter changes, inspections, and drain pipe clearing, your HVAC contractor can suggest upgrades to improve your furnace’s functionality during a tuneup and make needed furnace repairs to prevent breakdowns.

Are you looking for a quality HVAC contractor in the Twin Cities? If so, contact Blue Ox Heating & Air in Minneapolis, MN. From regular maintenance to repairs and replacements, they know their residential heating systems. They can also install home comfort solutions like humidifiers, air purifiers, and dehumidifiers. Call (952) 931-9676 to schedule an appointment or visit their website.