Winter in the Chicago area can bring beautiful scenery — but it can also lead to rising energy bills as your heating system works overtime. At Althoff Home Services, we know homeowners want to stay warm without stretching their budgets. The good news is that improving your home’s efficiency doesn’t require major changes. With a few smart adjustments, you can keep your living spaces comfortable and your energy use under control all winter long.
Here are five effective ways to lower your energy bills without sacrificing the comfort you count on.
1. Seal Drafts to Keep Warm Air Inside
Drafts are one of the biggest contributors to heat loss during the winter. Cold air sneaks in through small gaps around windows, doors, and other openings — forcing your heating system to work harder than necessary. Sealing these problem areas helps stabilize indoor temperatures and reduces wasted energy.
Simple updates like weatherstripping, caulking, or draft stoppers can make a noticeable difference in comfort. By addressing drafts early in the season, you create a more consistent indoor environment while helping your heating system run more efficiently.
2. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters Regularly
Your HVAC system relies on clean airflow to operate efficiently. When air filters become clogged with dust and debris, your system has to work harder to push warm air through your home. This not only increases energy usage but can also reduce indoor air quality.
Replacing or cleaning filters every one to three months — depending on your system and household needs — helps maintain strong airflow, reduces strain on your equipment, and supports stable temperatures throughout your home.
3. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
Small thermostat adjustments can have a big impact on energy use. Maintaining a steady, moderate temperature helps reduce the strain of frequent system cycling. Lowering the thermostat slightly during times when you’re asleep or away from home can also improve efficiency without affecting comfort.
If you use a programmable or smart thermostat, scheduling your temperature preferences makes it easy to balance warmth and savings.
4. Improve Heat Distribution in Your Home
If certain areas of your home feel colder than others, your heating system may not be distributing heat evenly. Ensuring that vents are open and unobstructed can make a significant difference. Furniture placed too close to vents can block airflow, causing cold spots and creating uneven comfort.
If uneven temperatures persist, it may be a sign your ductwork or heating system needs attention. Professional inspection can help identify underlying issues and restore proper air distribution throughout your home.
5. Schedule a Professional Heating Tune-Up
One of the best ways to maintain comfort and efficiency all winter is with a professional HVAC tune-up. During a maintenance visit, our technicians inspect, clean, and assess your system to ensure it’s performing at its best. A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently, reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, and can help extend the lifespan of your equipment.
If you haven’t scheduled your winter HVAC service yet, now is the perfect time.
Call Althoff Home Services Today
Ready to stay warm while saving energy this winter? Contact Althoff Home Services today to schedule an appointment with our professionals. Chicago’s Choice Since 1961. Hand It Off to Althoff!