When winter settles in, we know how important it is to keep your home warm without watching your utility bills climb. At Schaible’s Plumbing & Heating Inc., we’re here to help you stay cozy, save money, and make smart decisions for long-term comfort—and we proudly support homeowners looking to improve heating in Hunterdon County with reliable, energy-efficient solutions.
1. Smart Thermostat Use: Heat Smarter, Not Harder
A smart thermostat is one of the most effective tools for improving winter heating efficiency. These devices learn your schedule, automatically adjust temperatures, and help eliminate wasteful heating when you’re asleep or away. We recommend setting your thermostat back 7–10 degrees for at least eight hours a day; this small adjustment can cut heating costs significantly over the season. Many smart thermostats also offer remote access, so you can control your home’s temperature from your phone—ideal for last-minute schedule changes or unexpected weather shifts.
2. Seal Drafts for Instant Energy Savings
Drafts are one of the biggest culprits behind heat loss in winter. Even tiny gaps around windows, doors, piping, and attic hatches can let warm air escape and cold air rush in. At Schaible’s, we see this issue often, and the fix is usually quick and affordable. Use weatherstripping, door sweeps, and caulk to seal problem areas. Don’t forget to check around older windows and basement foundations—two common locations where warm air loves to sneak out. A properly sealed home not only stays warmer but also allows your heating system to operate more efficiently.
3. Keep Your Furnace or Boiler in Top Shape
Your heating system works hard during the coldest months, and regular maintenance is essential to keeping it running safely and efficiently. A tuned-up furnace or boiler burns fuel more effectively, distributes heat evenly, and is less likely to break down when you need it most. Our technicians recommend annual maintenance to inspect burners, clean components, check safety controls, and ensure proper airflow. If you’ve noticed strange noises, uneven heating, or rising energy bills, it may be time for a professional evaluation.
4. Take Advantage of Zoning for Customized Comfort
Heating every room in your home to the same temperature isn’t always necessary. With zoning, you can divide your home into separate heating areas, each controlled independently. This means you can keep frequently used rooms—like your living room or kitchen—comfortable while lowering the heat in areas you rarely use. Zoning not only boosts comfort but also reduces energy waste by targeting heat where it’s truly needed. If you’re building an addition or upgrading your current setup, zoning is a fantastic way to personalize heating while keeping costs down.
5. Don’t Forget Proper Insulation
Insulation acts as your home’s thermal barrier, keeping warm air inside where it belongs. Check your attic, walls, and crawl spaces to make sure insulation is sufficient and not compressed or deteriorating. Upgrading insulation can dramatically improve heat retention, making your home warmer and more energy-efficient all winter long.