How to Save on Your Home Heating Bills This Winter in Saskatchewan:
Tips from Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning
Winter in Saskatchewan can be long, cold, and expensive when it comes to heating your home. With temperatures regularly dipping below freezing, many homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their heating costs without sacrificing comfort. At Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning, we understand the importance of staying warm during our harsh winters—while also keeping energy bills in check.
In this blog, we’ll share practical tips and expert advice to help you save on your home heating bills this winter. From small adjustments you can make today to long-term investments, these strategies will help ensure that your home stays cozy, and your heating costs stay down.
1. Upgrade Your Thermostat: Go Smart or Programmable
One of the simplest ways to save money on heating is by using a smart thermostat or a programmable thermostat. With a smart thermostat, you can set schedules and control your home's temperature remotely using your smartphone. This means you can lower the temperature when you're away from home or asleep and raise it again just before you return or wake up.
A programmable thermostat works similarly, allowing you to set different temperatures for different times of day. By adjusting your thermostat by just a few degrees, you can save as much as 10% on your heating costs annually.
2. Seal Leaks Around Your Home
One of the most common causes of high heating bills in the winter is drafts caused by air leaks. Heat can escape through cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and even electrical outlets. A simple, cost-effective solution is to seal these leaks to prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering.
Check areas around:
Windows and doors (weatherstripping and caulking can make a big difference).
Attic hatches, vent fans, and ducts.
Outlets and switches on exterior walls.
Sealing leaks is an easy and inexpensive way to boost your home's energy efficiency.
3. Ensure Your Insulation is Up to Par
Proper insulation is one of the most important factors in maintaining a comfortable home while minimizing heating costs. If your home is poorly insulated, heat will escape quickly, forcing your furnace or heating system to work harder. In Saskatchewan, where winters are particularly severe, insulation in your attic and walls is essential for energy efficiency.
If your insulation is old, inadequate, or improperly installed, consider upgrading. At Gibbon our team can assess your home's insulation and recommend improvements that will keep your home warmer without cranking up the thermostat.
4. Invest in a High-Efficiency Furnace or Heat Pump
If your heating system is old, inefficient, or breaking down regularly, it may be time to upgrade to a high-efficiency furnace or a heat pump. Modern heating systems are significantly more efficient than older models, meaning they use less energy to produce the same amount of heat.
At Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning, we recommend replacing your furnace if it’s over 15-20 years old. Newer high-efficiency models can cut your heating costs by up to 30% or more. Cold-climate heat pumps are also a great option, providing energy-efficient heating even in frigid temperatures while offering cooling in the summer.
A professional assessment of your current system can help you determine if upgrading to a more efficient model makes sense for your home and budget.
5. Use Your Curtains to Your Advantage
Believe it or not, your curtains can have a significant impact on your heating costs. During the day, open your curtains to let the sun naturally warm your home. In the evening, close your curtains to help insulate your windows and keep the heat in. Thick, insulated curtains or thermal blinds are a bonus for retaining heat, especially on those particularly cold Saskatchewan nights.
6. Maintain Your Heating System Regularly
A poorly maintained heating system can lead to increased energy consumption and higher bills. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that your furnace or heat pump runs as efficiently as possible throughout the winter.
Book your annual tune-up today with our team for your furnace or heat pump. This includes:
Cleaning and replacing filters.
Checking the efficiency of your system.
Inspecting the ductwork for blockages or leaks.
Ensuring all components are functioning properly.
A well-maintained system will run more efficiently, last longer, and cost less to operate.
7. Take Advantage of Energy Rebates and Incentives
Did you know that there are often government rebates and incentives available for energy-efficient home upgrades? Whether you're installing a new high-efficiency furnace, upgrading insulation, or installing a heat pump, there may be financial incentives that can help offset the cost.
At Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning, we keep track of available local and federal rebates and can help guide you through the process of applying for them. It’s a great way to make energy-efficient upgrades more affordable.
8. Consider a Hybrid Heating System
If you’re looking for a versatile and cost-efficient way to handle extreme temperatures, a hybrid heating system might be the solution. A hybrid system combines the benefits of a heat pump with a traditional furnace. The heat pump will handle most of your heating needs during milder weather, while the furnace will take over during extremely cold spells. This way, you can save on energy costs while ensuring that your home stays warm no matter what the weather throws at you.
Hybrid systems are ideal for Saskatchewan homeowners looking for flexibility and efficiency.
(For more information on heat pumps see our blog)
9. Embrace Layered Clothing and Warm Accessories
Lastly, consider dressing warmly to reduce the need to heat your home to a high temperature. Wearing layers, wool socks, and cozy slippers can keep you comfortable even if the indoor temperature is a bit lower. A warm blanket or throw can make your living space feel extra cozy, and you'll save money by keeping the thermostat lower.
10. Change Your Furnace Filters Regularly
One of the simplest, most effective ways to ensure your furnace runs efficiently and avoids unnecessary breakdowns is by changing your furnace filters regularly.
A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, making your furnace work harder to heat your home. This not only increases your energy consumption, but it can also lead to more frequent furnace issues, such as overheating, system failure, or even a shortened lifespan for your furnace.
At Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning, we recommend checking your furnace filter at least once a month during the heating season. If it looks dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one. As a rule, most filters should be replaced every 3 months, but during peak winter months, it may be necessary to change it more often.
A clean filter helps:
Improve airflow: Ensuring your furnace can work at peak efficiency.
Extend the life of your furnace: By preventing dust and dirt buildup that can cause wear and tear.
Maintain indoor air quality: Cleaner air means fewer allergens and dust particles circulating in your home.
Neglecting to change the filter regularly is one of the most common causes of furnace breakdowns, so taking just a few minutes to check and replace the filter can go a long way in keeping your system running smoothly throughout the winter.
Heating your home during Saskatchewan's long, cold winters doesn’t have to break the bank. By following these tips—whether it’s upgrading your thermostat, sealing leaks, maintaining your furnace, or making energy-efficient upgrades—you can improve your home’s energy efficiency, reduce heating costs, and stay comfortable all season long.
If you're looking for professional advice on upgrading your heating system, performing maintenance, or exploring energy-efficient options like heat pumps and high-efficiency furnaces, our team at Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help.
Contact us today for a consultation at (306) 343-9576
Stay warm, stay comfortable, and save money this winter with a winter maintenance tuneup from Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning!