Winter in Wilmington, NC, might not be as harsh as in other parts of the country, but the chill in the air still makes a cozy, warm home a necessity. Unfortunately, staying comfortable often comes with a price—higher heating bills. At Foothills Heating & Air, we believe comfort shouldn't break the bank. Here are our top tips to keep your heating costs under control this winter while maintaining a comfortable home. 1. Schedule a Heating System Tune-Up A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently, using less energy to keep your home warm. Regular tune-ups can identify and fix small issues before they turn into costly repairs or lead to higher energy consumption. Schedule your annual maintenance with Foothills Heating & Air to ensure your system is in top shape. 2. Seal Air Leaks Drafty windows and doors are a common culprit for high heating bills. Check for gaps around windows, doors, and other openings, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. Not only will this keep the cold air out, but it will also prevent your heating system from working overtime. 3. Use a Programmable Thermostat Take control of your heating schedule with a programmable thermostat. Lowering the temperature by 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day can save you up to 10% on your heating costs. Program your thermostat to lower the heat while you’re sleeping or away and to warm up just before you return home. 4. Maximize Insulation Proper insulation in your attic, walls, and floors can significantly reduce heat loss. Consider adding insulation to key areas of your home to keep the warmth in and the cold out. This one-time investment can lead to long-term savings on your heating bills. 5. Utilize Natural Heat Take advantage of the sun’s warmth during the day by opening curtains and blinds on south-facing windows. Letting in sunlight can naturally warm your home, reducing the need to crank up your heating system. Just remember to close them at night to keep the heat inside. 6. Replace or Clean Air Filters Dirty or clogged filters force your heating system to work harder, consuming more energy. Check your filters monthly and replace or clean them as needed. A clean filter not only improves efficiency but also enhances indoor air quality. 7. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Heating System If your current heating system is over 10-15 years old, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Modern high-efficiency systems use less energy and can significantly lower your heating costs. Foothills Heating & Air offers a range of energy-efficient systems to fit your home’s needs and budget. Explore our products page to discover the energy-efficient heating equipment we offer and professionally install! 8. Close Unused Rooms If there are rooms in your home that you rarely use, close the vents and doors to those spaces. This directs more heat to the areas where it’s needed most, reducing energy waste. 9. Conduct an Energy Audit A professional energy audit can identify areas where your home is losing heat and suggest specific improvements. Our team at Foothills Heating & Air can help you pinpoint energy inefficiencies and recommend solutions to save money this winter. Stay Warm Without Breaking the Bank By implementing these simple strategies, you can keep your heating costs under control while staying comfortable all winter long. For professional assistance with your heating system or to schedule a tune-up, contact Foothills Heating & Air in Wilmington, NC. Our expert team is here to help you achieve a warm and energy-efficient home this winter. Call us today or visit our website to learn more about our heating services and schedule an appointment. Let’s work together to keep your home cozy and your energy bills manageable!

As the seasons change and cooler weather approaches, it’s essential to ensure your HVAC system is ready to keep your home comfortable and efficient all winter long. In Wilmington, NC, winters may not be as harsh as in other regions, but sudden drops in temperature can catch you off guard. At Fulford Heating & Cooling, we want to help you prepare your HVAC system so you can enjoy a cozy home without any unexpected breakdowns or costly energy bills. 1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Maintenance Check The best way to prepare your HVAC system for winter is by scheduling a maintenance visit with a professional. Our team at Fulford Heating & Cooling will inspect your system, clean critical components, and identify any potential issues before they turn into major problems. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, saving you money on heating costs. 2. Replace Your Air Filters Clogged air filters can reduce airflow, making your HVAC system work harder and less efficiently. Replace your filters before the heating season begins, and continue to check them monthly throughout the winter. Clean filters not only improve efficiency but also enhance indoor air quality—something you’ll appreciate during the colder months when windows stay closed. 3. Seal Air Leaks in Your Home Even the most efficient HVAC system can’t keep your home warm if there are drafts. Check for air leaks around windows, doors, and other areas where warm air might escape. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps, ensuring your home stays warm without overworking your heating system. 4. Test Your Thermostat Your thermostat plays a key role in maintaining indoor comfort. Test it before winter arrives to ensure it’s functioning properly. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat if you haven’t already. These devices allow you to set customized temperature schedules, helping you save energy when you’re not at home or while sleeping. 5. Inspect Your Ductwork Leaky or dirty ductwork can hinder your HVAC system’s performance. If your ducts are not properly sealed or insulated, they could be losing heat and costing you money. Have your ductwork inspected and cleaned to ensure warm air is distributed efficiently throughout your home. 6. Prepare Your Outdoor Unit If you have a heat pump or any outdoor HVAC components, make sure they’re ready for winter weather. Clear away leaves, dirt, and debris, and check for damage. If ice or snow is in the forecast, ensure the unit has proper drainage to prevent freezing. 7. Test Run Your Heating System Don’t wait until the first cold snap to discover your heating system isn’t working. Turn it on early and let it run for a short period to ensure it’s functioning properly. Pay attention to unusual sounds, odors, or inconsistent heating and address these issues promptly. 8. Consider a System Upgrade If your HVAC system is more than 10-15 years old or has been struggling to keep up with your comfort needs, it might be time for an upgrade. Modern systems are far more energy-efficient and can save you money in the long run. Our team at Fulford Heating & Cooling can help you choose the right system for your home and budget. Stay Warm This Winter with Fulford Heating & Cooling Preparing your HVAC system for Wilmington’s winter weather doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few proactive steps, you can ensure your home stays comfortable and energy-efficient all season long. If you need professional help, whether for maintenance, repairs, or a new installation, Fulford Heating & Cooling is here to help. Call us at 910-842-6589 or visit our contact page to schedule your next HVAC appointment with our team!