Combat The Cold Without Increasing Your Heating Bill

These hot tips will keep you warm when the temperature dips

After one of the colder Christmases on record, you may be looking for ways to stave off the chill that can creep into your home. And while we hope that January will bring some warmer temperatures, climate change can also mean unpredictable cold snaps throughout the winter. So, best to prepare for subfreezing weather with these simple ideas to help you:

Curtain call

Get the most out of your curtains by working them to your advantage throughout the cycle of the day. Open them wide to sunnier weather to allow all that warmth to naturally heat your rooms. At night, close them to add extra insulation to your windows and trap the heat.

Take cover

Put extra layers between yourself and cold drafts. Rugs help diffuse the chill from uncarpeted floors, and you may be surprised how well a quality pair of thermal socks work to fend off the cold. Down-filled or electric blankets can also make a difference in your comfort level.

Something in the air

Make double use of the warm air produced through everyday routines. Open the shower door to let the steam travel all throughout the house. Leave the oven open after cooking to let the heat circulate. Reverse the direction of the fan to clockwise, so that it pulls the warm air down from the ceiling to ground level.

Door of opportunity

Doors are major culprits when it comes to heat loos. Fortunately, you can begin to combat this quite easily through draft stoppers. You can even DIY these and add your own style to make them conversation pieces. Another simple option is closing doors to rooms that are not in frequent use to keep the heat in the main areas of your home.

Related:

Indoor and Outdoor Home Maintenance: Getting Your Home Summer Ready

Andrew Knaack