There’s a good chance that high heating bills are here to stay. As the prices of natural gas and heating oil continue to rise, homeowners will find themselves paying more to keep their homes warm during the winter. Fortunately, you can offset some of these costs by improving your home’s insulation. In fact, most homeowners can save 30 percent or more on heating bills by making a few simple and inexpensive upgrades!

Older homes are often most in need of insulation improvements. But even newer homes may not be as well insulated as they should be. Many houses built after 1980 have inadequate insulation because local building codes may not align with the latest U.S. Department of Energy recommendations. Additionally, some homebuilders cut costs by using minimal insulation to maximize profits.

Here are five easy ways to reduce your heating bills this winter:

1. Increase attic insulation

Your attic is a major source of heat loss and one of the easiest places to improve insulation. If your attic has less than 12 inches of insulation, consider adding paperless rolls of insulation on top of existing materials. Over time, insulation compacts and becomes less effective, so adding new layers can restore its efficiency.

A well-insulated attic should remain cold in the winter. If you notice icicles forming along your eaves, it means warm air is escaping, melting the snow, and causing water runoff to refreeze, potentially damaging your roof. Proper insulation can prevent this problem and keep your home warmer.

2. Use weatherstripping around windows and doors

Significant heat loss occurs through small gaps around windows and doors. Installing modern weatherstripping is an affordable and effective way to reduce energy waste. Most weatherstripping products are easy to install but should be applied in temperatures above 20°F. Be sure to clean and dry surfaces before installation for maximum adhesion and durability.

3. Use expansion foam for small gaps

Expansion foam insulation is perfect for sealing small gaps where heat can escape. Common areas include spaces behind electric switch plates on exterior walls, openings where plumbing pipes enter the home, and areas where electricity, cable, or internet lines run inside. While these openings may seem minor, they can contribute to significant heat loss. A little bit of expansion foam can go a long way in improving your home’s efficiency.

4. Insulate the basement and crawlspace

Basements and crawlspaces often have gaps that let heat escape, especially if they’re unfinished. Use paper-faced insulation on exposed ceiling joists and fill small crevices where basement walls meet the ceiling. Expansion foam can also be applied to small openings around the foundation. Keeping these areas insulated will help maintain warmth and lower heating costs.

5. Use window curtains and blinds strategically

One of the simplest ways to retain heat is by using window coverings. Thick curtains and blinds help trap warm air at night, while opening them during the day allows sunlight to naturally warm your home. Choosing insulated curtains can further enhance their effectiveness in maintaining indoor temperatures.

Making these small, cost-effective improvements can lead to noticeable savings on your heating bills. A well-insulated home not only keeps you comfortable but also protects your property from potential damage caused by extreme temperature fluctuations.

Ensure Your Home is Energy-Efficient with a Professional Inspection

If you want to maximize your home’s efficiency and identify hidden energy leaks, a professional home inspection is a smart investment. IHI Home Inspections, serving Canton, Holly Springs, Woodstock, and surrounding areas, provides thorough assessments to help homeowners improve their insulation and reduce energy costs.

Schedule your home inspection today by calling IHI Home Inspections at 404-788-2581 or click here for online scheduling and take the first step toward a warmer, more energy-efficient home!