Home Heating: Tips on staying warm this winter

Focus on Filters

Replace your heating, ventilation and air-conditioning filter every three months, ideally with one that has a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating of 13. That will filter out dust and other large particles but provide enough airflow for your HVAC system to run without overworking.

Ask for an audit

Many utility companies offer free home energy audits. They will send a professional out to identify any problem areas in energy efficiency and suggest improvements. This might include anything from small fixes such as sealing air leaks to larger projects such as upgrading th HVAC system.

It’s curtains

Keeping window coverings drawn at night, and during the day on windows that do not receive sunlight, can reduce heat loss from a warm room up to 10 percent, according to th U.S. Department of Energy.

Eliminate leaks

This is a relatively easy do-it-yourself project that can make a big difference in keeping heat from escaping from your home. Remove the old caulk from your windows with a putty knife and brush. Replace it with a polyurethane caulk made for exterior windows. Smooth it out with a wet finger and allow it to dry.

Embrace the IRA

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 provides tax credits and rebates to homeowners for energy efficiency projects. For example, the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit pays homeowners back 30 percent, up to $1,200 per year, for qualifying projects such as adding insulation or switching to an electric system.

Get help with bills

Low-income families may be eligible for federal assistance with heating bills through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Find out whether you qualify and how to apply by calling the National Energy Assistance Referral hotline at 866-674-6327.