Are You Entertaining Guests? Keep Your Home Warm Without Spiking Energy Costs

The holiday season brings joy, laughter and the warmth of family and friends gathered under one roof. However, hosting guests during colder months often leads to increased energy consumption, especially when you’re trying to keep everyone comfortable.

The good news? You can maintain a cozy home for your guests without seeing a dramatic increase in your energy bills.

Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat plays a key role in balancing comfort and energy efficiency. Set your thermostat to a comfortable but not overly warm temperature, such as 68°F, when guests are active in the house. Lower it slightly at night or when everyone is asleep, as extra blankets and body heat will keep people warm.

If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, schedule temperature adjustments to match your household’s activities. Smart thermostats can even learn your preferences, providing optimal comfort and savings with minimal effort.

Leverage Body Heat and Cooking Warmth

Large gatherings naturally generate extra body heat, and holiday cooking provides a steady source of warmth. Consider lowering your thermostat slightly during mealtimes or events. Your oven and stove will heat up the kitchen, while the presence of guests helps maintain a cozy temperature in shared spaces.

Seal Drafts and Insulate

Drafty windows and doors are among the biggest culprits for heat loss. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal gaps and prevent cold air from sneaking in. Door draft stoppers can also be an effective solution.

For windows, heavy curtains or thermal drapes can add a layer of insulation, trapping warmth inside. Make sure to close curtains at night to prevent heat loss and open them during the day to let sunlight naturally warm the room.

Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air

Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. Set your fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed during winter. This pushes warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into the living areas, keeping your guests comfortable without needing to crank up the heat.

Focus on Shared Spaces

Heating unused rooms wastes energy. Close off vents or doors to rooms that guests won’t be using, such as storage areas or empty bedrooms.

Concentrate your heating efforts on shared spaces where everyone will be spending time, like the living room, kitchen and dining area.

Layer Up for Comfort

Encourage guests to dress warmly by having cozy blankets, throws and slippers readily available. These small touches create a welcoming environment while allowing you to keep the thermostat at a slightly lower setting.

Switch to Energy-Efficient Heating Options

Portable heaters can provide localized warmth in areas where guests gather, but they can be energy-intensive. If you use space heaters, opt for energy-efficient models with safety features and only use them in occupied rooms. Just keep in mind that space heaters are inherently inefficient compared to central heating, and pose some serious safety risks.

Fireplaces, whether traditional or electric, are another great way to add warmth and ambiance. Just remember to close the damper when the fireplace isn’t in use to prevent heat from escaping.

Maintain Your Heating System

A poorly maintained heating system works harder to heat your home, resulting in higher energy costs. Schedule a winter tune-up for your furnace or HVAC system to make sure it’s running efficiently. Replace dirty air filters, as clogged filters restrict airflow and force your system to work harder.

Use LED Holiday Lights

If you’re decorating for the holidays, switch to energy-efficient LED lights. They consume less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and produce less heat, which can reduce the overall strain on your heating system.

Educate Your Guests

Encourage guests to close doors quickly, turn off lights when leaving a room and avoid unnecessarily adjusting the thermostat.

Get in Touch With Our Furnace and Heating Experts in Tarrant County for Professional Assistance

Want to ensure your heating system is running at peak efficiency this winter? Trust our experts at Tom’s Mechanical Inc. Whether you need a system tune-up, furnace repair or advice on energy-saving upgrades, we’re here to help.

Contact us through our website to schedule service or give us a call at 817-277-4493 and enjoy a warm, energy-efficient home this winter.