December 21 marks the official first day of winter, and for homeowners across Savannah, Tennessee; Corinth and Iuka, Mississippi; Florence, Alabama; and Counce, Tennessee, that means colder nights, frosty mornings, and heating systems working overtime.
When temperatures drop, it’s easy to assume higher utility bills are unavoidable. But the truth is, small changes around your home can make a noticeable difference in comfort and energy costs. You don’t need to crank the thermostat or invest in major upgrades to stay warm this season. Sometimes, the simplest habits are the most effective.
As we head into the coldest months of the year, here are a few practical, low-cost ways to keep your home cozy while keeping energy use under control.
Use Sunlight to Your Advantage
Even on cold winter days, the sun can be a powerful (and free) heat source.
During daylight hours, open blinds, curtains, and shutters on windows that receive direct sunlight. This allows natural warmth to enter your home and gently raise indoor temperatures without using extra energy.
Once the sun goes down, close those window coverings to help trap the heat inside. Heavy curtains or insulated blinds are especially effective in reducing heat loss overnight.
This simple habit is particularly helpful for homes in Savannah and Corinth, where winter days often bring bright sunshine despite chilly temperatures.
Stop Drafts Before They Steal Your Heat
Drafts are one of the most common reasons homes feel cold even when the heater is running. Gaps under doors, around windows, and near exterior walls allow warm air to escape — and cold air to sneak in.
Adding draft stoppers to exterior doors is an inexpensive fix that can immediately improve comfort. Weather stripping and door sweeps also help seal gaps and keep heat where it belongs.
If certain rooms always feel colder than others, drafts could be the culprit. Addressing them can make your entire home feel more evenly heated without adjusting the thermostat.
Make Use of Residual Heat
After baking or cooking, your oven holds onto warmth. Turning the oven off and leaving the door open once it’s safe to do so can release that residual heat into the surrounding space.
While this won’t heat your entire home, it can add a little extra warmth to kitchens and nearby rooms — especially during evening hours when temperatures drop.
This tip works best as a supplemental measure and should never replace safe heating practices, but it’s a smart way to make use of heat you’ve already paid for.
Lower the Thermostat — Just a Little
One of the most effective ways to save energy in winter is to lower your thermostat by a couple of degrees. Even a small adjustment can reduce heating costs over time.
Instead of turning the heat up, try layering up with sweaters or grabbing a cozy blanket. Many homeowners find they stay just as comfortable with a slightly lower setting — especially when drafts are sealed and sunlight is used effectively.
For families in Iuka and Florence, where winter temperatures can fluctuate, this approach offers flexibility without sacrificing comfort.
Why Small Changes Add Up
Individually, these tips may seem minor. But together, they can significantly reduce how hard your heating system has to work. Less strain on your HVAC system means:
Lower monthly utility bills
More consistent indoor temperatures
Reduced wear and tear on equipment
Fewer unexpected winter breakdowns
When paired with regular HVAC maintenance, these habits help your system run more efficiently all season long.
Local Homes, Local Solutions
Homes throughout northwest Alabama, southern Tennessee, and northeast Mississippi vary widely in age, layout, and insulation. That’s why one-size-fits-all advice doesn’t always work.
At Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve spent decades helping local homeowners prepare for winter with solutions that fit their specific homes and budgets. From quick efficiency tips to professional tune-ups, our goal is to help you stay comfortable without unnecessary energy waste.
A Comfortable Winter Starts with Smart Choices
Winter doesn’t have to mean skyrocketing utility costs. With a few thoughtful adjustments and energy-smart habits, you can enjoy a warm, comfortable home throughout the coldest months of the year.
If you’re looking for even more ways to save energy — or want professional guidance on improving your home’s efficiency — help is available.
📞 Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning
📍 5910 Hwy 57, Counce, TN 38326
📱 (731) 689-3651
Proudly serving Savannah, TN • Corinth, MS • Iuka, MS • Florence, AL • Counce, TN
