If your house is always cold, no matter what temperature you set the thermostat to, there’s likely a problem with your insulation. In a poorly insulated house, heat seeps out while drafts and cold air come in. There may also be a problem with your heating system. An old or undersized heating system can’t heat your home properly, leading to cold rooms.
Why Won’t Your House Stay Warm?
Your house won’t stay warm either because it’s not insulated and air sealed properly, or because there’s a problem with your heating system (or both).
Insulation Problems
- Not Enough Insulation – Without enough insulation in your attic, basement, and walls, your house won’t retain heat.
- Old / Damaged Insulation – Insulation doesn’t work if it’s compressed, wet, or otherwise damaged.
- Air Leaks – Gaps around windows, doors, vents, and other openings let hot air escape and make your house drafty.
Heating System Problems
- Undersized Heating System – A furnace that’s too small for your house won’t adequately heat it.
- Old Heating System – Heating equipment can lose power over time and may not be able to heat your house properly as it ages.
- Baseboard Heat – Baseboards and radiators often struggle to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the house, resulting in cold spots.
- Leaky Air Ducts – Unsealed air ducts leak heat before it even reaches your vents.
How Do You Fix a Cold House?
To fix a cold house, you need to know what’s causing the problem. A home energy audit is the best way to find out.
If you live in Connecticut, you can get an energy audit through the Energize Connecticut℠ Home Energy Solutions℠ program. There’s a $75 co-pay (waived if you schedule by 3/31/26!). Income-eligible homeowners can receive a no-cost assessment through Home Energy Solutions-Income Eligible℠.
Quick Fixes for a Cold House
Sometimes, there’s a quick and easy way to fix a cold room in your house.
- Clean HVAC System Filters – A clogged filter blocks heat. Clean or replace your filters and see if it helps.
- Open & Unblock Vents – Ensure all vents are open and move furniture or rugs that may be blocking them.
- Check Thermostat – Make sure your thermostat is on. If not, change the batteries and reset it.
Permanent Fixes for a Cold House
- Upgrade Insulation – Insulation will help your house retain heat and stay warm. You could save up to 100% on an insulation upgrade with Energize CT℠ rebates.
- Seal Air Leaks – Sealing leaks and drafty areas is one of the fastest ways to make a house warmer. Air sealing is included in Home Energy Solutions and Home Energy Solutions-Income Eligible.
- Seal Ductwork – Sealing duct leaks ensures heat makes it to your vents so your house stays warmer. Duct sealing is included in Home Energy Solutions and Home Energy Solutions-Income Eligible.
- Replace Heating System – A new heating system that’s sized correctly for your home will keep it warm. If you only need better heat in one or two rooms or want to replace baseboard heat, a ductless mini split is the best option. You may qualify for heat pump and mini split rebates through Energize CT. If you’re income eligible, you could qualify for a no-cost heat pump.
Rebates & Incentives for Insulation, Heat Pumps & More in CT
There are rebates to help pay for insulation upgrades and heating system replacements in New Haven and throughout all of Connecticut. We can help you save on insulation, heat pumps, and more with Energize CT rebates.
If you’re income-eligible in New Haven, you may qualify for additional incentives, including financial assistance for mold and asbestos removal, electrical system upgrades, and knob-and-tube wiring replacement to help you prepare for an insulation or heating system replacement.
The first step toward rebates is to sign up for Home Energy Solutions or Home Energy Solutions-Income Eligible.
