WINDOWS
FURNACE
Windows are a significant source of heat loss and cold-air entry. If your windows are older or inefficient, you can apply window film to make the space less drafty and reduce the need for additional heating. Window film kits are available online and at home improvement stores. The plastic film sticks to the window frame, and some styles rely on heat from a hair dryer to shrink it for a tight fit. At the end of the season, it’s easy to remove. Additionally, you can cover those drafty windows with curtains for efficient protection from cold drafts. Look for options with thick fabric or thermal construction. In conjunction with window film, you could benefit from substantial cold-weather savings and improved temperature moderation.
Be sure to replace your furnace filter at least every three months and as often as once a month when it runs frequently or you burn wood in a fireplace or woodstove. Maintain your furnace with an HVAC service provider twice a year to enhance reliability and efficiency. Lisa Purvins, CFO and Vice President at Pro- Tech Heating & Cooling, says, “When it comes to your HVAC system, now is the time to have your furnace professionally inspected and tuned. We see too many people skip this step and end up calling us during a blizzard because their furnace gave out. A fall tune-up ensures the system is running safely and efficiently, and that things like heat exchangers, burners, and blower motors are clean and functioning correctly.” In addition to regular furnace maintenance, upgrading to a smart thermostat can greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency. These devices can be programmed to automatically lower the temperature at night or while you’re away, reducing unnecessary heating costs. Many models also offer smartphone apps, allowing you to adjust your home’s temperature remotely with just a few taps—perfect for unexpected schedule changes or when you forget to turn down the heat before leaving.
CEILING FANS
If your ceiling fans have a switch that changes the direction of the blades, use the setting to reverse them into winter mode. This helps push warm air from the ceiling, where it gathers back down into the room.
OUTLETS
Even the smallest air gaps can cause the furnace to work harder to warm the home. For a few dollars, you can purchase a package of insulation pieces sized to fit your outlets. These install in minutes and act as a barrier from outdoor drafts, especially on exterior walls.
5 November 2025
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