How to Save on Heating Costs This Fall

There is something about the first chilly morning of fall that makes you want to reach for a cozy sweater, make a warm coffee and turn up the heat.

But before you turn that thermostat up a few degrees, there are a few simple things you can do to keep your home comfortable while being mindful of your heating costs.

At unitiiPM, we want our residents to feel comfortable in their homes throughout the changing seasons. These easy fall heating tips can help you stay warm, make your home more energy efficient and potentially save on heating costs as temperatures start to drop.

Start With Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is one of the easiest places to make a difference.

Rather than keeping your home warmer than necessary throughout the day, consider lowering the temperature slightly when you are sleeping or away from home. Even a small adjustment can make a difference over the course of the heating season.

A comfortable temperature while you are home, combined with a slightly lower setting overnight, can help you balance comfort and energy use.

Let the Sunshine In

Fall may bring cooler temperatures, but it also brings plenty of beautiful sunny days.

Open your curtains or blinds during the day and let the sunlight naturally warm your home. Once the sun goes down, close them again to help keep that warmth inside.

It is one of the easiest heating tips because it costs nothing.

Give Your Vents Some Space

Take a quick look at your heating vents. Are they blocked by a couch, bed, rug or other furniture?

Keeping vents clear allows warm air to circulate more effectively throughout your home. Rearranging furniture so that vents are unobstructed can help your home heat more evenly.

If you notice that a room consistently feels much colder than the rest of your home, reach out to your unitiiPM property team so we can take a closer look.

Check Your Windows and Doors

Cold drafts can make your home feel much colder and can make it tempting to turn up the thermostat.

Make sure your windows are fully closed and locked as the weather gets colder. Pay attention to noticeable drafts around windows and exterior doors as well.

If you notice a significant draft or believe there may be an issue with a window or door, contact your unitiiPM property team. We are here to help keep your home comfortable.

Keep Your Home Cozy With Layers

Sometimes the best way to stay warm is surprisingly simple.

Before turning up the thermostat, grab your favourite sweater, put on some warm socks or curl up under a blanket. Creating a cozy environment does not always require more heat.

And let's be honest, fall is basically sweater weather season anyway.

Make the Most of Your Kitchen

Fall is the perfect time for baking, cooking hearty meals and making your favourite comfort foods.

Using your oven can naturally add some warmth to your kitchen while you cook. Once you are finished, allow the area to cool naturally.

Just remember to always turn your oven and stovetop off when you are finished cooking.

Do Not Ignore Heating Problems

If your home is not heating properly, do not simply turn up the thermostat and hope for the best.

If you notice that your home is unusually cold, your heating system is running constantly, or certain areas are not heating properly, contact your unitiiPM property team.

Our teams can help determine whether there is an issue that needs to be addressed.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Fall is the perfect time to get your home ready for colder weather.

Taking a few minutes now to check your thermostat, clear your vents, inspect your windows and make sure your doors are closing properly can help you feel more prepared when winter arrives.

And if you live in Alberta, you know that winter has a way of arriving sooner than we would like.

Stay Warm, Stay Comfortable

Saving on heating costs does not mean you need to sacrifice comfort. Small changes to your daily habits can help you use your home's heat more efficiently while keeping your space warm and welcoming.

From opening the curtains on a sunny afternoon to putting on your favourite sweater before adjusting the thermostat, a few simple changes can make a difference.

From everyone at unitiiPM, we hope you have a warm, comfortable and cozy fall!

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature should I set my thermostat to in the fall?

A comfortable starting point is around 20°C when you are home and awake. You may choose to lower the temperature slightly while sleeping or when you are away.

Should I turn my heat off when I leave my apartment?

It is generally better to lower the temperature rather than turn the heat completely off, particularly as outdoor temperatures begin to drop. Always follow any heating recommendations provided by your building.

Why is my apartment still cold when the heat is running?

There could be several reasons, including blocked vents, drafts or an issue with the heating system. If your home is consistently colder than expected, contact your unitiiPM property team so we can investigate.

How can I make my apartment warmer without turning up the heat?

Try opening your curtains during sunny days, closing them at night, keeping heating vents clear and adding warm layers such as sweaters, socks and blankets.

What should I do if I notice a draft around my window or door?

Make sure the window or door is completely closed and locked. If you continue to notice a significant draft, contact your unitiiPM property team so the issue can be assessed.

When should I prepare my apartment for winter?

Fall is a great time to get ahead of the colder weather. Checking your heating, windows, doors and vents now can help you identify potential issues before winter arrives.