As we settle into the new year, now is the perfect time to give your home a little extra attention. From comfort and energy savings to safety and peace of mind, a few simple tasks can make a big difference.
Here are 10 homeowner must-dos to start the year off right and set yourself up for a warmer, safer, more efficient winter.
1. Schedule a No-Cost Home Energy Assessment
If you haven’t had a Home Energy Assessment (HEA) in the past two years, it’s time to schedule one! Thanks to Mass Save®, eligible Massachusetts residents can get:
- A full-home energy evaluation from one of our certified Home Energy Specialists
- A custom home energy report with detailed findings and expert recommendations
- 75-100% off insulation upgrades
- 100% off air sealing
- Instant savings measures like programmable thermostats and water-saving devices
A no-cost Home Energy Assessment is the best way to uncover hidden inefficiencies and unlock valuable incentives for comfort and savings.
2. Replace Air Filters
Start the year with fresh air. Change your HVAC system’s air filters, especially if it’s been over 90 days. Clean filters improve airflow, efficiency, and indoor air quality.
Pro tip: Set a reminder to do this every 3 months.
3. Test Smoke & CO Detectors
Check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Replace the batteries and make sure every floor of your home has functioning alarms, especially near sleeping areas.
4. Book Your Annual Heating Check-Up
Whether you heat your home with a furnace, boiler, or heat pump, annual maintenance is key. It keeps your system running safely, avoids breakdowns, and can extend your equipment’s lifespan.
Book a Heating and Cooling Check-up with HomeWorks and get:
- Full inspection of your unit
- Combustion safety test (for applicable systems)
- Cleaning and maintenance of critical parts
- Peace of mind heading into peak winter season
5. Seal Drafts and Air Leaks
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, homeowners save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs after fixing air leaks and insulation issues. Refresh your weather stripping and caulk to seal cracks and eliminate drafts, or let our weatherization team provide no-cost air sealing for you after an energy audit, thanks to the Sponsors of Mass Save.
6. Check Attic Insulation Levels
Insufficient attic insulation is one of the biggest causes of heat loss in New England homes. If you’re feeling drafts or struggling with uneven heating, your insulation could be outdated, damaged, or just not enough.
During your no-cost assessment, an energy expert will evaluate your attic and help you access up to 100% off upgraded insulation through Mass Save.
Services We Provide in Massachusetts
7. Give Your Thermostat a Winter Reset
Smart thermostats can help you save 10% or more on your heating bills if you’re using them right. Update your settings for winter, enable scheduling, and use eco or away modes when you’re not home to maximize energy efficiency.
Don’t have a smart thermostat? We offer Honeywell programmable models at no cost during your HEA and Nest thermostats at a reduced price with instant rebates.
8. Clean out Dryer Vents
Lint buildup in your dryer vent isn’t just a fire hazard; it also reduces your dryer’s efficiency. Take a few minutes to clean it out or have a professional do a deep clean if it hasn’t been done in over a year.
9. Take Advantage of Big Incentives
Looking to make a major upgrade in 2026? Heat pumps are one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat and cool your home, and Massachusetts residents can take advantage of generous incentives through the Mass Save program:
- Up to $16,000 in rebates for eligible heat pump installations
- 0% interest HEAT Loan financing up to $25,000 to help cover project costs
- Lower winter electric rates now available for homes with heat pumps (for National Grid, Eversource, and Unitil customers)
Not sure if a heat pump is right for your home? HomeWorks Energy offers a no-cost HVAC Consultation to help you compare options, understand your potential savings, and plan your next steps with confidence.
10. Make a Plan for Bigger Upgrades
Thinking about upgrading your windows? Curious about solar? Need to remove knob-and-tube wiring or vermiculite insulation?
Use your no-cost Home Energy Assessment as a roadmap. Our specialists can help you plan for long-term improvements and show you how to stack incentives to get the best return on your investment.
Ready to Start Fresh?
Let’s make 2026 the year your home becomes more efficient, comfortable, and prepared for whatever weather comes your way. Start with a no-cost Home Energy Assessment and we’ll guide you from there.
Call (781) 305-3319, or schedule a day and time online.
