7 Things Nearly Everyone Gets Wrong When Heating Their Home

January 29, 2026

home heating mistakes — Image Source: Shutterstock

As the winter settles in, heating bills tend to climb. What many people don’t realize is that they are getting some things wrong, which costs them money and keeps them cold. In fact, most people make at least one of these common errors every season without even knowing it. That said, fixing these mistakes is fairly easy. So, make sure you aren’t messing up any of these seven things when heating your home over the next few months.

1. Cranking the Thermostat Doesn’t Heat Faster

It’s a common belief that turning the thermostat way up will warm your home more quickly. But heating systems don’t work like gas pedals. They deliver heat at a consistent rate. All you’re doing is making the system run longer, which wastes energy and overshoots your comfort zone. Instead, set your thermostat to your desired temperature and give it time to work. This small change can prevent one of the most costly home heating mistakes.

2. Blocking Vents With Furniture or Rugs

It might seem harmless to place a couch or rug over a vent, but it’s a major airflow killer. Blocked vents force your HVAC system to work harder, reducing efficiency and unevenly heating your home. Over time, this strain can shorten the life of your system and increase repair costs. Make sure all vents are clear and unobstructed, especially in high-traffic rooms. Good airflow is essential to avoiding home heating mistakes that quietly drain your wallet.

3. Forgetting to Change the Furnace Filter

A dirty filter is like a clogged artery for your heating system. It restricts airflow, reduces efficiency, and can even cause your furnace to overheat and shut down. Most filters should be changed every 1–3 months, especially during heavy use in winter. It’s a quick, inexpensive fix that can prevent expensive breakdowns. Skipping this step is one of the most avoidable home heating mistakes out there.

4. Leaving the Heat On All Day While You’re Away

Many people leave the heat running all day to avoid coming home to a cold house. But this habit wastes energy and money, especially if no one’s home to enjoy the warmth. A better option is to use a programmable or smart thermostat to lower the temperature while you’re out and raise it before you return. This simple adjustment can cut heating costs by up to 10% annually. Don’t let this common home heating mistake sneak up on your utility bill.

5. Closing Vents in Unused Rooms

It seems logical. Why heat a room you’re not using? But closing vents can actually throw off your HVAC system’s balance and increase pressure in the ducts. This can lead to leaks, reduced efficiency, and even damage to your furnace. Instead of closing vents, consider zoning systems or space heaters for targeted warmth. Avoiding this mistake helps your system run smoother and last longer.

6. Ignoring Drafts and Poor Insulation

If your home feels drafty, your heating system is probably working overtime to compensate. Gaps around windows, doors, and attic hatches let warm air escape and cold air creep in. Sealing these leaks with weatherstripping or caulk is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve comfort. Adding insulation to attics and crawl spaces can also make a big difference. Overlooking insulation is one of the most expensive home heating mistakes in the long run.

7. Misusing Ceiling Fans in Winter

Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. They can actually help circulate warm air in winter. But many people forget to reverse the fan direction to clockwise, which pushes warm air down from the ceiling. This helps maintain even temperatures and reduces the load on your furnace. Just set the fan to its lowest speed and enjoy better comfort throughout the room. It’s a small tweak that corrects one of the most overlooked home heating mistakes.

Smart Heating Starts With Smarter Habits

Heating your home efficiently isn’t about spending more. Most home heating mistakes come from outdated habits or simple misunderstandings. By making a few strategic changes, you can stay warm, save money, and extend the life of your HVAC system. Whether it’s adjusting your thermostat or unblocking a vent, small steps add up to big savings. This winter, heat smarter… not harder.

Which of these heating habits have you been guilty of, and what changes made the biggest difference for your comfort or your bills? Let us know in the comments!