As the seasons shift from the warmth of summer to the chill of fall, it’s the perfect time to start preparing your home for the winter ahead. While we all appreciate warm and cozy living spaces, it doesn’t have to come at the cost of skyrocketing energy bills. Here are a few cost-effective and practical tips to keep your home warm without breaking the bank.
Easy Ways to Keep Your Home Warm
1. Select Curtains for Cold Weather
Curtains do more than add style to your home; they help manage the temperature indoors. In fall and winter, choose heavier, thermal-lined curtains to act as a barrier against cold drafts. These curtains trap heat inside and keep the cold air out, making your living space feel warmer.
If you’re in a frigid climate, use layered window coverings. Combine heavy thermal curtains with insulated blinds or shades to create an extra barrier against the cold.
2. Add Rugs to Cover Hardwood and Tile Flooring
Cold floors can make your home feel uncomfortable during winter. Warm it up by adding rugs over hardwood and tile flooring. Warm carpets make your floors more comfortable underfoot and provide an extra layer of insulation, preventing cold air from seeping through from the basement or crawl space.
3. Seal Gaps Around Doors and Windows
Gaps around doors and windows let cold air in and warm air out. Inspect the windows and doors for areas where you feel cold air seeping in. Seal them with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent drafts and boost energy efficiency.
4. Take Advantage of the Sun’s Radiant Heat
On sunny winter days, don’t keep the curtains closed. Let the sunlight in to enjoy the warmth of the sun. The sun provides a natural and free heat source, even on cold days. Close the curtains at night to trap the heat inside.
5. Install a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is a small investment that can result in significant savings. These devices allow you to program your heating system to operate at lower temperatures when you’re not home and warm the living spaces just before you return. You can enjoy a warm home, manage the indoor temperature from your smartphone, and reduce your energy consumption.
6. Keep Your Home Warm: Reverse Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are not just for cooling in the summer; they help distribute warm air efficiently in the winter. By reversing the direction of the ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at low speed, you’ll push warm air down from the ceiling and create a more even temperature in the room.
7. Bake and Cook More Frequently
Cooking and baking provide delicious meals for your family and heat your home. Take advantage of this by preparing more warm, homemade meals during the colder months. Leave the oven door open after cooking so the heat from the appliance will contribute to the warmth of your living space.
8. Use Draft Stoppers to Keep Your Home Warm
Draft stoppers are simple, effective tools to keep the cold air out. Place them at the base of doors and windows to create a tight seal. You can purchase draft stoppers or make your own by filling a fabric cylinder with rice or dried beans.
9. Incorporate Throw Blankets and Pillows
Stay warm and comfortable with throw blankets and pillows. These add comfort and style to your home while providing extra warmth during the colder seasons. Incorporate throw blankets into your home decor by placing them on the couch and bed to add warmth for the season.
With these cost-effective hacks, you can enjoy a warm and inviting home during the winter months without spending a fortune on high energy bills. By implementing these tips and tricks, you’ll stay cozy, save on heating costs, and make the most of the chilly season in your warm, comfortable living spaces.
Monadnock Home Inspections offers inspections to homebuyers and sellers in southern New Hampshire. Contact us to request our services.