Winter Is Coming… and So Is the Heating Bill!

If you’ve already spotted the first snowflakes, it’s official—winter is coming! (cue the Game of Thrones theme). While we might not need swords or dragons to survive it, we’ll definitely need warm homes and smart habits to keep those heating bills under control.

Here’s the cold truth: about 90% of U.S. homes use some form of heating, and nearly half of all home energy costs go straight to staying warm. So, if your wallet starts shivering in January, you’re not alone. The good news? A few small changes can make a big difference.

Let’s start with an easy win—turn your thermostat down just 1 degree. That tiny tweak can cut your heating bill by up to 3%. Even better, when you’re asleep or out of the house, drop it by 5 to 7 degrees; that could save you around $180 a year according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Next, look at your windows and doors. If you feel a draft, that’s money literally slipping through the cracks. Up to 30% of your home’s heat can escape this way. Add some weather stripping, seal gaps with caulk, or use a clear insulation film—it’s cheap, easy, and surprisingly effective.

Fun fact: sunlight is still your best free heater! Open the blinds during the day to let in the sun’s warmth, and close them at night to keep the cold out. Bonus points if you use thick curtains—they act like cozy blankets for your windows.

And here’s one most people forget: your ceiling fan can help in winter too! Flip the switch so it spins clockwise—that pushes warm air down, keeping rooms toasty without touching the thermostat.

Don’t forget your furnace filter either. A dirty filter makes your system work harder, which means higher bills and less heat. Replace it every 1–2 months in winter for maximum efficiency.

Now, while you’re doing your winter prep, it’s the perfect time to clear out those old electronics collecting dust in the closet. Instead of throwing them away, bring them to AVAY! We responsibly recycle and refurbish electronics, helping keep e-waste out of landfills (and saving resources for future generations).

So, as the snow starts to fall, remember: a few smart tweaks can make your home warmer, your bills smaller, and the planet a little greener.

Winter is coming—but you’ve got this. And AVAY’s here to help you stay warm, save money, and recycle smart. ♻️🐉