- A national energy analysis by the National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA) projects U.S. home heating costs will rise about 7.6% this winter, increasing the average from about $907 to $976 (~$995 in some forecasts).
- According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), households using electricity to heat will pay about 4% more this winter than last, largely due to rising electricity prices.
Heating can be one of the most expensive parts of winter for American families. Space heating accounts for a large share of home energy use — often around 40% or more of total energy costs in colder regions. Recent data from the U.S. Department of Energy shows the average U.S. household spent roughly $519 on space heating, with northern states like New Hampshire averaging nearly $981 yearly. Meanwhile, forecasts for the 2025–26 winter expect average heating costs across the country to reach around $995 per household, an increase of $84 from last year.
The good news? You don’t have to choose between comfort and savings. With a few smart strategies, you can keep your home warm, lower your winter expenses, and still feel cozy all season long—without freezing.
🏠 Start With Smart Heating Habits
Heating costs spike when systems work harder than necessary. One of the simplest ways to save money is adjusting how—and when—you heat your home.
Lowering your thermostat by just 7–10°F for eight hours a day can reduce heating costs by up to 10% annually. That doesn’t mean shivering all day. Try lowering the temperature while you sleep or when the house is empty, then warming it back up when you’re home and active.
If you don’t already have one, a programmable or smart thermostat is a winter money-saver. These devices automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule, helping prevent wasted energy without sacrificing comfort.
🧣 Seal the Leaks That Drain Your Wallet
Many homes lose heat through small gaps and cracks—often without homeowners realizing it. Drafts around doors, windows, and electrical outlets can account for a surprising amount of heat loss.
Affordable fixes can make a big difference:
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Use weather stripping on doors and windows
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Apply caulk to seal visible cracks
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Install draft blockers or door snakes
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Cover unused fireplace chimneys when not in use
These low-cost solutions help keep warm air inside where it belongs, reducing how often your heater needs to run.
🪟 Use Curtains and Sunlight Strategically
Your windows can either help you save money—or quietly raise your heating bill.
During the day, open curtains on south-facing windows to let natural sunlight warm your space for free. At night, close them to reduce heat loss. Using thermal or insulated curtains can significantly cut drafts and help retain indoor warmth.
This simple habit costs nothing but can noticeably reduce heating demand during cold months.
🧥 Layer Up Indoors (It Works!)
It might sound old-fashioned, but wearing layers indoors is one of the easiest ways to stay warm without cranking up the heat.
Sweaters, hoodies, thick socks, slippers, and blankets allow you to stay comfortable at lower thermostat settings. Even lowering the thermostat by 1–2 degrees can translate into real savings over an entire winter.
Think cozy—not cold.
🔥 Heat Only the Spaces You Use
Not every room in your home needs to be heated equally. If you spend most of your time in a few key areas, consider focusing your heating efforts there.
Close doors and vents in unused rooms to redirect warmth where it matters most. Space heaters can also help—when used safely and sparingly. Energy-efficient space heaters are best for warming small areas for short periods, not for heating entire homes.
Always follow safety guidelines and never leave heaters unattended.
🧼 Maintain Your Heating System
A poorly maintained heating system can waste energy and money. Dirty filters, clogged vents, or neglected equipment force systems to work harder than necessary.
Simple maintenance steps include:
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Replacing air filters every 1–3 months
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Keeping vents and radiators clear
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Scheduling annual system checkups if possible
Clean systems run more efficiently, helping reduce energy consumption and prevent expensive breakdowns during peak winter months.
🍲 Use Heat From Everyday Activities
Your daily routines already generate heat—use them to your advantage.
Cooking in the oven warms your kitchen and nearby spaces. After baking or roasting, leave the oven door open (once it’s turned off) to let leftover heat circulate. Hot showers release steam that warms bathrooms, and using dryers during colder hours can add a bit of extra warmth indoors.
These small gains add up when combined with other strategies.
💡 Reduce Other Winter Energy Costs
Heating isn’t the only winter expense that climbs. Shorter days mean more lighting, and cold weather increases energy use across the board.
To keep costs down:
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Switch to LED light bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy
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Unplug electronics when not in use
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Wash clothes in cold water when possible
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Run dishwashers and laundry during off-peak hours if your utility offers time-based rates
Lowering overall energy use helps offset heating costs and keeps your total utility bill manageable.
🧾 Look for Assistance and Budget Plans
If winter bills feel overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many U.S. utility companies offer budget billing programs that spread costs evenly throughout the year, preventing seasonal spikes.
Additionally, energy assistance programs exist to help eligible households manage heating expenses during cold weather. Even if you don’t qualify, utilities may offer payment plans or temporary relief during extreme winter conditions.
It never hurts to ask—many families miss out simply because they don’t check.
🛋️ Cozy Doesn’t Have to Be Costly
Staying warm in winter doesn’t require blasting the heat nonstop or draining your savings. By combining smarter heating habits, better insulation, layered clothing, and mindful energy use, you can cut winter costs without sacrificing comfort.
Cold weather is inevitable—but sky-high heating bills aren’t.
A few small changes can lead to noticeable savings, helping you stay warm, comfortable, and financially stress-free all winter long.