Heating costs: how to lower them this winter

Heating is usually the largest energy cost in a Canadian home. The biggest savings come from stopping heat loss first, then using your heating system smartly.

The short version: seal air leaks, add insulation where it is thin, service your equipment and use a programmable or smart thermostat. Consider a heat pump when it is time to replace equipment.

Seal air leaks first

Drafts waste heat. Common leaks are around windows and doors, attic hatches, electrical outlets on exterior walls, vents and where pipes and wires enter the house. Use weatherstripping and caulk, and add door sweeps. A home energy audit can find the leaks, often with a blower door test.

Insulate

Attics are often the most cost-effective place to add insulation. Also look at basement rim joists and walls. Insulation levels and recommended values depend on your region and house, so check with an energy advisor or your provincial program.

Windows and doors

New windows can improve comfort, but they are expensive and often take a long time to pay back in energy savings. Sealing, storm windows, curtains and film can help at lower cost. See our guide on whether new windows are worth it.

Heating equipment

• Service your furnace or boiler annually.
• Replace filters as recommended.
• Clean vents and radiators, and keep them unblocked.
• Consider a heat pump. They can heat and cool efficiently, and can be paired with a backup system in cold climates.

Thermostat habits

Lowering the temperature when you sleep or are away saves energy. A programmable or smart thermostat makes it easier. Savings depend on your home and habits.

Other ideas

• Use ceiling fans on low in reverse to push warm air down.
• Open curtains on sunny days and close them at night.
• Insulate hot water pipes and the water heater.
• Lower the water heater temperature, within safe limits.

Programs

The federal Canada Greener Homes grant and loan are closed. A federal heat pump rebate was announced on October 8, 2026, with launch aimed at early 2027. Provinces and utilities have their own programs, so check what is current before you start.

Example

Sealing the attic hatch and adding weatherstripping cost little, and can make the upstairs noticeably warmer. Start with such low-cost steps and measure the results on your bills.