Homebuilding Insights

Originally published 2015. Updated 2025 with modern winter energy-saving tips for Ernest Homes homeowners.

As we move into the coldest time of the year, homeowners across Coastal Georgia and the Southeast are looking for simple, effective ways to stretch their heating dollars. Here are some practical winter energy tips to help you stay warm, reduce utility costs, and get maximum value from your home’s heating system.

10 Smart Ways to Save on Heating Costs This Winter

1. Schedule an energy audit. Contact your local electric company to request a home energy audit. This quick assessment reviews your home’s usage, insulation levels, and habits to identify areas where you can improve efficiency. Some companies even offer rebates or incentives after completing an audit — a win-win for your comfort and wallet.
2. Install a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats — often costing between $40 and $100 — automatically raise or lower your home’s temperature based on your schedule. Lower the heat while you’re out or asleep, and warm things up before you arrive home. Many homeowners save up to 30% on heating bills with this simple upgrade.
3. Upgrade to a high-efficiency heat pump. Modern heat pumps can reach efficiency levels of 94% or higher. Because the correct unit must match your home’s size, consult your homebuilder or a licensed HVAC professional to determine the system that will heat and cool your home most efficiently.
4. Add weather stripping. This easy DIY project can dramatically reduce drafts and heat loss. Install window caulking, new door thresholds, and plastic window film to keep warm air inside. These small upgrades can improve heating efficiency by up to 70%. Decorative door draft stoppers can also provide both charm and extra insulation.
5. Use portable heaters safely. If certain rooms are harder to heat, consider using a small electric heater to warm just that space — without raising the temperature for the whole house. Never use fuel-burning heaters indoors, and always check that your smoke detectors are working. For safe operating tips, visit this heater safety resource.
6. Choose an efficient water heater. Tankless water heaters provide endless hot water on demand and use zero energy when turned off. They also last much longer — around 20 years compared to 7–10 years for traditional tank heaters. If you prefer a tank-style heater, adding an insulating jacket can improve efficiency by up to 10%.
7. Keep heating vents clear. Ensure furniture isn’t blocking vents and preventing heated air from circulating properly. Open airflow reduces heating time and cuts energy use.
8. Improve insulation for year-round comfort. Every Ernest home includes high-quality insulation, including advanced spray foam insulation for superior temperature regulation and energy efficiency. This helps keep your home warm during winter cold snaps and cool during our hot Coastal Georgia summers. Learn more about our energy-efficient construction at ErnestHomes.com.
9. Use decorative touches to conserve energy. Fireplaces can offer supplemental warmth on chilly days. Area rugs add an insulating layer to hard floors, keeping cold air trapped below. Heavier winter draperies help block chilly drafts from windows — just be sure to close them once the sun sets for maximum effect.
10. Reverse your ceiling fans. Changing the direction of your ceiling fans helps distribute warm air more evenly throughout each room, reducing how hard your heater has to work. It’s a simple step that can make a noticeable difference.

Winter may be short in Coastal Georgia, but heating bills don’t have to be high. These simple tips can help you stay cozy while keeping energy costs down. For more homeowner resources or to explore new energy-efficient homes, visit ErnestHomes.com.