When the cold weather sets in, most of us rely heavily on our home’s heating systems to stay comfortable. But as temperatures drop, energy use climbs—and so do monthly bills. For many households, this increase can put significant pressure on the family budget.
In fact, a Statistics Canada study found that 1 in 7 Canadians have kept their homes at an “unsafe or uncomfortable” temperature because of high heating costs. Not only can living in a cold home be unpleasant, but it may also increase health risks, particularly for children, seniors, and those with pre-existing conditions.
The good news is that small, intentional changes can make a big difference. By boosting your home’s energy efficiency and adopting smarter heating practices, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Here are six practical strategies to consider for this winter.
1. Seal the Exterior
Drafts are one of the biggest culprits behind heat loss in Canadian homes. Even small cracks or gaps around windows, doors, or your roof can allow warm air to escape and cold air to seep in.
- Apply caulking around windows and door frames.
- Replace worn weather-stripping.
- Inspect your roof and exterior walls for cracks or holes and have them repaired.
- A well-sealed home reduces wasted energy and keeps the heat where it belongs—indoors.
2. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are one of the most effective tools for reducing heating costs. They allow you to:
- Adjust your home’s temperature remotely using your phone.
- Program heating schedules that align with your daily routines.
- Automatically lower the temperature when you’re away or asleep.
- Even a small temperature reduction can add up to significant savings over time.
3. Use Natural Light
The sun is a free heat source—take advantage of it!
- Open curtains and blinds during the day to let sunlight warm your living spaces.
- Close them again at night to keep heat from escaping.
- South-facing windows, in particular, can provide noticeable warmth on sunny days.
4. Layer Up
You don’t always need to crank up the thermostat to stay cozy.
- Wear layers of clothing indoors.
- Keep throws and blankets handy in living areas.
- Consider heated blankets for extra warmth on especially cold nights.
- By staying comfortable in other ways, you can afford to set your thermostat a little lower without sacrificing comfort.
5. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. Many models come with a reverse setting that allows the blades to spin clockwise, creating an updraft. This setting helps push warm air—often trapped near the ceiling—back down into the living space, making your heating more efficient.
6. Turn Off Unused Devices
It may surprise you, but appliances and electronics left on standby still consume energy. This “phantom power” can drive up your utility bills without you even realizing it.
- Unplug devices when not in use.
- Use power bars with on/off switches for convenience.
- These small steps can reduce overall energy consumption, giving your heating system less competition for power.
Final Thoughts
Winter heating costs are a reality for every Canadian household, but they don’t have to overwhelm your budget. By sealing drafts, using smart technology, making the most of natural light, and adjusting your everyday habits, you can keep your home warm while reducing energy waste.
Beyond lowering your bills, improving energy efficiency also supports the long-term health of your home. And from an insurance perspective, preventing issues like frozen pipes or overheating appliances can reduce the risk of costly claims.
If you’d like to learn more about protecting your home—both through safe practices and the right insurance coverage—please contact us.