Comfort Shouldn’t Come at a Cost
Winter in Jacksonville may be mild compared to the rest of the country, but homeowners still see a spike in energy bills once the cooler air moves in. From shorter days to more time indoors, it’s easy for your heating system to run longer and harder than necessary.
The good news? Lowering your winter energy costs doesn’t require sacrificing comfort. With a few strategic HVAC upgrades and smart home habits, you can enjoy a cozy home and smaller utility bills.
At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, we help Jacksonville families get the most out of their heating and cooling systems year-round. Here are seven easy ways to save energy this winter — without feeling the chill.
1. Replace Your Air Filter to Boost Efficiency
Your HVAC filter affects everything from airflow to indoor air quality. A dirty or clogged filter makes your system work harder, increasing energy use by up to 15%.
Replace disposable filters every 1–2 months, or clean reusable ones according to manufacturer recommendations. This simple step helps your system breathe easier and run more efficiently all winter long.
2. Adjust Your Thermostat Wisely
Every degree counts. Lowering your thermostat just 2–3 degrees when you’re asleep or away can save up to 10% on heating costs each year.
If you haven’t already, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. It automatically adjusts temperatures based on your schedule — so you’re saving energy even when you forget to. Reliable Ducts can install and configure smart thermostats for homeowners across Jacksonville and St. Johns County.
3. Seal Air Leaks and Insulate Problem Areas
Drafty doors, windows, and attic spaces let warm air escape, forcing your system to work overtime.
Use weather stripping or caulk to seal gaps around entryways and window frames. Adding insulation to attics or crawl spaces can further reduce heat loss — especially in older Jacksonville homes.
Our technicians can also check your ductwork for hidden leaks, which are responsible for up to 30% of energy waste in typical homes.
4. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up
A well-maintained system runs smoother, heats faster, and uses less electricity.
Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling offers comprehensive heating tune-ups that include cleaning coils, lubricating parts, testing electrical components, and verifying airflow. These inspections not only improve efficiency but also prevent costly breakdowns during the cooler months.
Think of it as a yearly wellness check for your HVAC system — it pays off in comfort and savings.
5. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air
Did you know your ceiling fans can help lower your heating costs? Simply reverse the fan direction (so it spins clockwise) during winter.
This pushes warm air trapped near the ceiling back down into the room, helping your HVAC system maintain even temperatures without running as often.
6. Clean and Open Vents Throughout the House
Blocked or dusty vents restrict airflow, causing uneven heating and forcing your system to run longer. Vacuum vents and registers regularly, and make sure furniture or curtains aren’t blocking them.
If you’re still noticing inconsistent airflow, it might be time for a duct cleaning or balancing service. Reliable Ducts’ team can identify the source of the issue and restore proper air circulation for more even comfort.
7. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency HVAC System
If your system is more than 10–12 years old, upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient model can dramatically reduce your utility bills.
Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling installs ENERGY STAR®-rated systems that use less power, deliver more consistent temperatures, and qualify for potential rebates or financing options.
Our comfort specialists can help you choose the best system for your home’s size, layout, and energy goals.
Why Jacksonville Homeowners Choose Reliable Ducts
- Local HVAC experts who understand Florida’s climate challenges
- Fast, honest service with no hidden fees
- Preventative maintenance and repair programs for all major brands
- Serving Jacksonville, Orange Park, Nocatee, and surrounding areas
From quick tune-ups to complete system replacements, we help homeowners save energy while staying comfortable all year long.
Start Saving Before the New Year
With just a few small adjustments, you can make your home more energy-efficient, reduce your monthly bills, and extend the life of your HVAC system.
Contact Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling today to schedule your winter energy-efficiency inspection and keep your home cozy — for less.
