Hosting during the holidays should feel joyful, not stressful, and definitely not expensive. After spending on gifts, food, and decorations, the last thing anyone wants is a high heating bill.
The good news is that you can keep your home warm and inviting without adding to the holiday strain. Here’s how!
1. Seal Drafts Around Doors and Windows
One of the simplest ways to keep heat inside your home is to stop cold air from leaking in.
- Inspect windows and doors for drafts.
- Apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps.
- Use a fabric draft stopper (often called a door snake) at the bottom of leaky doors or windows for a quick, inexpensive fix.
This small step can make a noticeable difference.
2. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are not just for summer. Set your fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed.
Warm air naturally rises. A clockwise rotation gently pushes that warm air down into the room and helps distribute heat more evenly.
3. Change Your Furnace Air Filters
A clean air filter helps your heating system work more efficiently. When filters are dirty:
- Airflow drops
- Energy use increases
- Indoor air quality declines
Replace your furnace filter every one to three months for better circulation and lower energy costs, especially during holiday gatherings.
4. Lower the Thermostat Before Guests Arrive
People and cooking both add warmth to the home.
Turn your thermostat down to 62 to 66°F about an hour before guests arrive. The natural heat from bodies, movement, and the kitchen will keep the space comfortable without wasting energy or causing the house to feel stuffy.
5. Take Advantage of Oven Heat
If you plan to cook or bake during your gathering, use the opportunity to warm your home more efficiently.
- Prepare food while guests are present.
- After cooking, turn off the oven but leave the door open so the remaining heat can warm the kitchen and nearby rooms.
Only do this if it is safe for your household. Avoid leaving the oven open around pets or small children.
6. Close Off Unused Rooms
Focus your heat where it is needed most.
- Keep doors closed to unused rooms such as guest rooms, laundry rooms, or storage areas.
This helps maintain warmth in areas where guests gather.
7. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up from Team Harding
For the most reliable comfort, consider a professional HVAC tune-up. This service can improve:
- Heating performance
- Energy efficiency
- Indoor air quality
- System reliability during peak holiday use
A tune-up helps you avoid unexpected issues during your celebrations.
Stay Cozy and Spend Smart This Holiday Season
Keeping your home warm does not have to increase your heating bill. With these practical holiday hosting hacks, along with a furnace tune-up from Team Harding, you can welcome family and friends into a comfortable and cozy home all winter long.
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Need a tune-up?
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Team Harding has been Ottawa’s leading home comfort specialist since 1994. We are a family-owned and operated local business and all of our installers and technicians are fully licensed.
