Winter heating costs are no joke in Minnesota. Families in Dundas, Faribault, and Lakeville often spend nearly half of their utility bills on heating. But with a few smart strategies, you can keep your home cozy without overpaying.

At Streitz Heating & Cooling, we specialize in helping homeowners cut energy waste and maximize comfort. Here are our top tips for lowering heating bills this season.

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1. Schedule a Professional Furnace Tune-Up

A dirty or neglected furnace works harder than it should. Annual maintenance improves efficiency, extends lifespan, and catches issues before they lead to costly breakdowns.

✔ Pro tip: Schedule service early in the fall before the rush hits.

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2. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats learn your routines and automatically adjust temperatures to save energy. Features like geofencing and remote control mean your furnace isn’t heating an empty house.

✔ Local bonus: Streitz installs and programs smart thermostats for homes across Rice County.

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3. Seal Air Leaks Around Your Home

Even the most efficient furnace wastes energy if your house leaks warm air. Check for gaps around:

• Windows and doors

• Attic hatches

• Basement rim joists

• Electrical outlets on exterior walls

Adding caulk or weatherstripping is a simple DIY fix that pays off.

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4. Improve Insulation

Insufficient insulation is one of the biggest culprits behind high heating bills. Key areas to address include:

• Attic – Prevents rising heat from escaping.

• Basement & crawl spaces – Keeps cold air from seeping in.

• Walls – Especially in older homes in Faribault and Lakeville.

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5. Replace Furnace Filters Regularly

A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder. Replace filters every 1–3 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies.

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6. Consider Furnace Upgrades

If your furnace is 15+ years old, upgrading to a high-efficiency model (95%+ AFUE) can cut heating costs by hundreds each year.

✔ Streitz offers free estimates for homeowners in Dundas, Faribault & Lakeville.

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7. Use Humidity to Your Advantage

Air with proper humidity feels warmer at lower temperatures. A whole-home humidifier allows you to set your thermostat a few degrees lower without losing comfort.

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8. Close the Chimney Damper

If you have a wood-burning fireplace, make sure the damper is closed when not in use. Otherwise, warm indoor air escapes straight up the chimney.

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Local Perspective

Minnesota winters bring extreme cold, and energy prices continue to rise. For homeowners in Dundas, Faribault, and Lakeville, taking proactive steps now means more comfort, lower bills, and fewer emergency calls in January.

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Call Streitz Heating for a Winter Energy Checkup

Want personalized recommendations for your home? Our experts can evaluate your heating system, insulation, and thermostat settings to help you save.

📞 Call (507) 645-4040 today to schedule service in Dundas, Faribault, Lakeville, or surrounding towns.