Increase your home's heating efficiency
Your furnace is responsible for about 29% of the energy used in your home. There are ways to make yours run more efficiently and minimize energy costs.
| Heating tips |
Skill level |
Cost range |
Savings |
Buy ENERGY STAR® certified furnaces.
ENERGY STAR certified natural gas furnaces are up to 16% more energy efficient than standard natural gas furnaces. |
Basic to professional |
$2,300+ |
Up to $94 annually |
Install a programmable thermostat.
Save on your energy bills with a properly programmed thermostat. |
Advanced |
$25-$250 |
Up to $180 annually |
Get preseason tuneups.
Schedule yearly tuneups for your HVAC system to improve its efficiency and life span. |
Professional |
About $100 + parts |
Up to 10% |
Change your filter.
Clean furnace air filters keep air flowing efficiently, and can lower natural gas consumption by up to 2%. |
Basic |
$6-$35 |
Up to 2% |
Install a ceiling fan.
An energy-efficient way to warm your home in the winter months (and cool it in summer, too.) |
Advanced |
$100-$200 |
$165 over 10 years |
Insulate your home.
Adding or upgrading insulation helps keep your home warmer, so your furnace can run less. |
Advanced to professional |
Varies |
Up to 10% on annual energy costs |
Install energy-efficient windows.
Properly installed, ENERGY STAR energy-efficient windows make a home more comfortable by reducing drafts and maintaining even temperatures. |
Professional |
$150-$500 each + installation |
$146-$501 annually |
Seal and insulate ducts.
Keep your HVAC ductwork sealed and insulated to improve your system's energy efficiency. |
Advanced to professional |
$2-$3 tape rolls |
20% |
Properly seal leaks by weatherstripping.
Weatherstripping is a cost-effective way to save money on energy costs and improve your household's comfort by reducing drafts. |
Basic to advanced |
$50-$350 |
Up to 20% |
