As 2026 begins, many homeowners are looking for simple, effective ways to boost comfort while lowering energy bills—and your HVAC system in Joliet, IL plays a big role in those improvements. With a few DIY adjustments and some strategic upgrades, you can make this your most efficient and comfortable year yet.
Use Ceiling Fans to Your Advantage
Ceiling fans are one of the easiest tools for improving comfort without raising your energy use. In the winter, set fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This gentle updraft pushes warm air along the ceiling back down into your living space, easing the workload on your heating system. In the summer, switch your fan direction to counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze that makes rooms feel several degrees cooler—allowing you to raise the thermostat without sacrificing comfort.
Harness (or Block) the Power of Sunlight
Sunlight can either heat or cool your home depending on the season. In winter, open south-facing curtains and blinds during the day to let in natural warmth, then close them at night to keep heat inside. During the summer, do just the opposite: use blackout curtains or cellular shades during peak daylight hours to prevent heat gain and reduce the strain on your air conditioner.
Seal Drafts for Immediate Energy Savings
Drafts around doors, windows, attics, and crawlspaces are some of the biggest causes of energy waste. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or expanding foam to seal these gaps and prevent heated or cooled air from slipping outdoors. Even small cracks can cause major energy loss, so taking an hour or two to tighten up your home can have a big impact on your comfort and utility bills.
Fine-Tune Your Thermostat Settings
Small thermostat adjustments can deliver dependable savings. In winter, keep your thermostat at the lowest comfortable setting when you’re home, and lower it by 7–10 degrees at night or when you’re away. In summer, raise it slightly during those same periods. If you haven’t already programmed your thermostat—or don’t yet use a smart model—this is one of the easiest ways to save year-round.
Upgrade Your Home’s Efficiency with Our Help
When you’re ready to go beyond DIY fixes, we offer several professional solutions that can dramatically boost home comfort and efficiency. Smart thermostats make automatic, intelligent adjustments based on your schedule and preferences. Duct sealing ensures conditioned air actually makes its way into your living spaces rather than leaking into attics or basements.
Whole-house indoor air quality solutions improve airflow, reduce contaminants, and help your HVAC system perform more smoothly. And don’t overlook insulation—upgrading attic or wall insulation is one of the most effective long-term ways to reduce energy waste.
Set Comfort and Savings Goals for the New Year
Whether you want to reduce energy bills, enjoy more consistent heating and cooling, or improve indoor air quality, taking a proactive approach now will pay off all year long. Start with a few easy DIY habits, then let us help you tackle the bigger upgrades when you’re ready. With the right plan, 2026 can be your most comfortable—and efficient—year yet.
Contact J&A today, sleep tight tonight!