10 Winter Energy-Saving Tips for Your Home Heating in PA

Winters in Pennsylvania can be long, cold, and costly, especially when it comes to heating your home. With temperatures regularly dipping below freezing, finding ways to prepare for the coming season, scheduling that furnace repair in Lancaster, PA, you’ve been putting off, and learning how to stay warm without sending your energy bills through the roof is essential. 

Fortunately, there are smart, practical steps you can take to improve your home’s energy efficiency, prevent HVAC emergencies, and lower your heating costs before the cold months arrive. 

1. Seal Drafts and Air Leaks 

Cold air sneaking through gaps around doors, windows, pipes, and attic hatches can force your heating system to work overtime. You can seal these gaps with weatherstripping, caulk, or foam sealant and ensure your warm air stays inside. 

• Pro Tip: Check for drafts with a lit incense stick—if the smoke moves erratically, you’ve found a leak. 

2. Schedule an Annual Furnace Tune-Up 

Keeping your energy system in optimal condition can be one of the best winter home energy tips in PA. Annual service helps ensure your systems run efficiently and use less energy while preventing costly breakdowns. 

• Pro Tip: Have your HVAC system checked every fall. This includes changing filters, cleaning components, and inspecting safety features. 

3. Add or Upgrade Insulation 

Insulation keeps heat inside your home, especially in key areas like attics, walls, basements, and crawlspaces. Older Pennsylvania homes are often under-insulated by today’s standards, so reviewing this can be highly beneficial! 

• Pro Tip: Focus on your attic first—heat rises, and most energy loss occurs through the roof. 

4. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans 

Most people don’t realize that ceiling fans can also help with heating. By reversing the motor to spin clockwise, fans push warm air near the ceiling back down into the room. 

• Pro Tip: Use the fan in its lowest setting in occupied rooms only to avoid wasting energy. 

5. Use Thermal Curtains or Window Insulation Kits 

Windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in winter. Insulated or thermal-backed curtains help trap heat inside, and plastic film insulation kits add an extra barrier against cold air, resulting in lower heating costs in PA. 

• Pro Tip: Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let in sunlight, then close them at night to retain heat. 

6. Close Unused Rooms 

If there are rooms you rarely use—like a guest bedroom or formal dining room—consider closing vents and doors to redirect warm air to the spaces you actually live in. 

• Pro Tip: Make sure your HVAC system is balanced. Closing too many vents can increase pressure and reduce efficiency. 

7. Lower Your Water Heater Temperature 

Many water heaters are set unnecessarily high (often around 140°F). Lowering it to 120°F still provides comfortable hot water while allowing you to save on heating bills from water. 

• Pro Tip: Wrap your water heater in an insulating blanket, especially in a cold basement or garage. 

8. Weatherproof Exterior Doors 

Even newer doors can let in cold air if not properly sealed. Check for light shining through edges, install or replace weatherstripping, and consider a draft stopper for the bottom. 

• Pro Tip: A door sweep or door snake can block gaps without a major investment. 

9. Dress for the Season 

Sometimes the simplest changes make a big impact. Wearing layers indoors, using flannel bedding, and cozying up with throw blankets can help you feel warmer without touching the thermostat. 

• Pro Tip: Socks are your best friends during winter. If your feet are cold, your whole body will be cold, so keep them covered! 

10. Schedule a Furnace Repair Before It’s in High Demand 

Waiting until your furnace breaks down in the middle of winter can leave you scrambling for service—often during the busiest time of the year for HVAC companies. Instead, schedule any necessary repairs or maintenance early in the season to ensure your system is running safely and efficiently. 

• Pro Tip: Late summer or early fall is the best time to catch small issues before they turn into expensive emergencies—and before technician availability becomes limited. 

Get Your Furnace Repair in Lancaster, PA, on Time, and Save on Heating! 

Pennsylvania winters are not only cold but also long. From November to March, consistent freezing temperatures mean your heating system runs nearly nonstop. This can put a strain on both your system’s functions and on your wallet. 

By implementing these tips, you’ll lower your utility bills, reduce strain on the power grid, extend the life of your HVAC system, and make your home more comfortable and environmentally responsible. If you’d like to ensure your home stays warm throughout the winter, contact Summers & Zim’s for help!