Small steps provide big savings this winter.

With experts calling for another winter with record lows across Canada, Jaga Climate Systems, a provider of energy-efficient heating solutions, released its top six tips for reducing your energy bill this winter.

“Almost half of a home’s energy consumption is due to heating and cooling,” said Bert Kriekels, executive director of Jaga Climate Systems. “With a few simple and practical steps, consumers can substantially reduce the amount of money they spend on heating their home.”

1. Open Blinds and Curtains.
During the day, keep windows unobstructed to capture sunlight. This can help naturally raise the temperature in a room. At night, be sure to close shades and curtains to reduce potential energy loss.

2. Capture Internal Heat.
Internal heat sources, such as ovens or steam from showers, can generate heat in a room. To maximize use of this energy and stimulate airflow, keep doors open between rooms.

3. Turn Down Your Thermostat.
Simply turning down the thermostat just one or two degrees can save as much as 5 to 10 percent off your energy bill. Turning down thermostats during the night, or in unoccupied areas such as formal dining rooms can further reduce these costs.

4. Invest in a Programmable Thermostat.
For less than $100, you can purchase a digital thermostat and soon recoup the cost of your investment. Programmable thermostats enable you to establish heat levels based on your schedule so that spaces are not heated during times when no one is home.

5. Give Your Heating System a “Tune up.”
Your heating system is just like a car — it requires regular maintenance in order to work properly. Before the cold weather arrives, have your system reviewed by a specialist to remove dust build-up, replace filters and make sure all connections are operating properly.

6. Check for Air Leaks around Windows and Doors.
While window panes can be a source of energy loss, gaps around the outside of windows or doors can result in additional waste. Run your hand along the outside of a window to feel for leaks, or hold a candle up to the window to see if the flame flickers. Properly insulating these gaps will help prevent money from literally going out the window.

“While energy-efficient systems, such as low-temperature heating solutions, are effective ways to reduce heating costs, many people do not have the opportunity to make immediate investments in this technology,” Kriekels added. “These tips will help offset skyrocketing energy costs to help Canadians reduce the impact of home heating on their wallet — and the environment — down the road.”

For more information about home heating solutions from Jaga Climate Systems, visit www.jaga-canada.com.