Save Money and Stay Warm with Help from Cherry Tree HVAC
When winter hits the St. Louis region, your heating system kicks into high gear — and so does your electric bill. Whether you use an electric air handler, a heat pump, or even a dual-fuel system, rising utility costs can make the colder months feel more expensive than they should. The good news? With a few smart HVAC adjustments and some practical know-how, you can reduce your winter electric bill without sacrificing comfort.
At Cherry Tree Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping St. Louis homeowners stay warm efficiently for years. Below are our top money-saving HVAC tips for winter, based on decades of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of what works in our local climate.
1. Schedule a Heating System Tune-Up Before the Cold Sets In
A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently — plain and simple. Dirty coils, clogged filters, or a worn blower motor can cause your system to work harder than it needs to, driving up your electric usage.
Our team at Cherry Tree HVAC performs seasonal furnace and heat pump maintenance as part of our Sweet Comfort Club or individual service calls. We clean and inspect your system thoroughly, check for worn parts, and make sure it’s running at peak efficiency. A small investment in a tune-up now can lead to big savings all winter long.
2. Replace Dirty Air Filters Monthly
One of the easiest ways to lower your energy costs is to keep your air filter clean. A dirty filter restricts airflow, which forces your heating system to run longer to reach the thermostat setting. That means more wear and tear — and higher bills.
We recommend checking your filter every month during the winter. If you see a layer of dust or pet hair, replace it. A clean filter means your system doesn’t have to struggle to move warm air throughout your home.
3. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Heating your home when no one is there is like leaving your car running in the driveway. If you’re gone during the day or sleeping at night, a smart thermostat or programmable thermostat can lower your usage without you even thinking about it.
Set the thermostat to lower the temperature by 6–8 degrees while you’re asleep or away, and let it warm up before you return. If you’re not sure how to set your current thermostat, or want to upgrade to a newer model, Cherry Tree HVAC can help with selection, setup, and installation.
4. Seal Drafts and Leaks Around Your Home
Even the most efficient heating system will struggle to keep you warm if heat is escaping. Cold drafts around windows, doors, attic access points, or even electrical outlets can significantly affect how much your system runs.
Here are some quick fixes:
- Install weatherstripping around doors and windows.
- Use foam outlet gaskets on exterior wall outlets.
- Seal attic doors with insulated covers.
- Close the fireplace damper when not in use.
Doing this means your HVAC system doesn’t have to overcompensate — and your electric bill won’t reflect the extra effort.
5. Use Ceiling Fans (Yes, Really!)
Most homeowners think of ceiling fans as a summer tool, but in the winter they can actually help you feel warmer without raising the thermostat. Just flip the switch on the fan base to reverse the blades’ direction (clockwise). This pushes warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into the living space.
It’s a simple trick, but it can make rooms feel warmer — allowing you to lower the thermostat by a degree or two without noticing a difference in comfort.
6. Keep Vents and Returns Clear
Your HVAC system can’t do its job efficiently if vents are blocked or return air is restricted. Walk through your home and check that:
- Furniture or curtains aren’t covering any floor or wall vents.
- Your return air grilles are clean and unobstructed.
- Nothing is stacked or stored near your indoor unit (especially in closets or mechanical rooms).
Improved airflow means better heating performance — and less energy usage.
7. Upgrade Your System if It’s Nearing the End
If your heating system is over 15 years old, runs constantly, or requires frequent repairs, it may be time to consider a replacement. Modern HVAC equipment is significantly more efficient, especially high-efficiency heat pumps or inverter-driven systems.
At Cherry Tree HVAC, we offer expert guidance on system design and installation. We’ll walk you through your options and help you compare long-term savings from upgrading versus holding onto an aging system. Our goal is always to offer solutions that fit your comfort, budget, and long-term needs — no pressure, just honest advice.
Bonus Tip: Join the Sweet Comfort Club
If you want to take the guesswork out of winter maintenance, join our Sweet Comfort Club. For a simple yearly fee, you get:
- Two annual tune-ups (one for your heating, one for your cooling system)
- Front-of-line service for emergency calls
- Discounts on repairs and parts
- Peace of mind knowing your system is cared for year-round
It’s one of the most affordable ways to protect your home’s comfort and save on seasonal energy costs — especially during long Missouri winters.