The holidays bring full tables, busy kitchens, and a front door that never stops opening. They can also bring a heating bill that makes you wince in January. With over 90 years of experience keeping New England homes comfortable, Townsend Energy has seen it all, and these 10 tips will help you stay warm while you host.

Heating system acting up before the guests arrive? Don’t wait for a cold snap. Reach out through our online contact form or call (978) 717-0490 today.

Seal Drafts Before Your Guests Arrive

Drafts are the quietest way to waste heat. A little prep keeps warm air in and cold air out.

Check doors and windows. Hold a candle or your hand near the edges on a windy day. If you feel a draft, add weatherstripping or caulk.
Use a door sweep or draft stopper. The front door gets the most traffic, so give it extra attention.
Cover the small leaks. Outlet gaskets, the fireplace damper, and gaps around attic hatches add up fast.

Use Smart Thermostat Strategy for Holiday Hosting

Your thermostat is your biggest money-saving tool, as long as you use it wisely.

Lower the heat a few degrees when guests arrive. A full house generates plenty of body heat, and a hot oven helps too.
Set back the temperature while you’re out or asleep. Dropping it 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day can save up to about 10% a year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Program it before the big day. A programmable or smart thermostat can warm the house just before company arrives, so you aren’t heating an empty home all day.

Zone Your Home for a Crowd

Guests tend to gather in a few rooms. Heat those spaces and don’t worry about the rest.

Close vents and doors in unused rooms. Keep the main living areas comfortable and cut the heat to guest rooms you aren’t using.
Keep furniture off vents and radiators. Blocked heat can’t circulate, so the system works harder for less comfort.

If some rooms always run colder than others, a zoning upgrade could help. Learn more about our home heating services and how a system tuned to your home can even out the comfort.

Add a Little Holiday Warmth

Let your cooking help. When the oven is done, leave the door open (with no little ones around) so the leftover heat warms the kitchen.
Layer up the cozy way. Throw blankets, rugs on bare floors, and thick curtains at night make rooms feel warmer, so you can keep the thermostat lower.

Plan Ahead for a Worry-Free Season

The best time to check your heat is before you need it. Make sure your fuel levels are comfortable and your equipment has had its annual tune-up. A system that runs well uses less energy, and that’s a gift to your wallet all winter.

Ready for a Warmer, Cozier Holiday?

Whether you need a heating tune-up, a fuel delivery, or advice on keeping your bills in check, Townsend Energy is here to help you and your guests stay comfortable all season. Fill out our online contact form or call us at (978) 717-0490 today. After more than 90 years serving New England and surrounding areas, we’d be glad to help make your holidays warm and worry-free.