As fall begins and temperatures drop, you may be looking forward to warm, cozy living spaces. However, heating your home can become expensive, especially if the house isn’t properly insulated. There are inexpensive ways to keep your home warm during fall and winter. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you stay comfortable without breaking the bank.
Easy Ways to Keep Your Home Warm
1. Check the Windows and Doors
One of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your home warm is by checking the windows and doors for drafts. Drafty windows allow cold air to seep into your home, making it harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Check for drafts by standing near the windows and doors with a lit candle or stick of incense. Move the candle around the frame, looking for the flame to flicker. If you find drafts, seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
2. Use Curtains and Blinds to Keep Your Home Warm
Curtains and blinds help keep the living spaces warm. During the day, open the curtains to let sunlight in. Sunlight naturally heats your home, reducing the need to turn on the heating system. Close the curtains and blinds at night to create an extra insulation layer, trapping warm air inside your home.
3. Bundle Up
Stay warm when the temperatures drop by wearing warmer clothing and using blankets. Dressing in layers is more cost-effective than constantly running the heating system. Wear warmer clothing when at home during the day, and use a heated blanket or foot warmer when relaxing in the evening.
4. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat saves money and energy by allowing you to set a schedule for your heating system. Program the HVAC to automatically turn on and off at certain times of the day, reducing energy usage and lowering the heating bill.
5. Insulate Your Home
Proper insulation is key to keeping a home warm and energy-efficient. Insulate the walls, attic, and floors to prevent heat escaping and keep cold air out. Install spray foam insulation or batt insulation for an affordable and effective way to save money year-round.
6. Use a Draft Stopper to Keep Your Home Warm
Draft stoppers help prevent cold air from seeping into your home. Purchase one for each exterior door, or use a towel or fabric. Roll the material tightly and place it at the bottom of your door. Alternatively, you can sew a fabric tube and fill it with rice to add weight and keep the draft stopper in place.
7. Incorporate Area Rugs
If you have flooring that is cold underfoot – such as hardwood or tile – incorporate area rugs into your decor to combat chilly floors. Rugs add color and texture and provide an extra layer of insulation, keeping your feet warm on cold winter mornings.
Enjoy a warm, comfortable home during the colder months. These simple and affordable tips allow you to maintain cozy living spaces without spending a fortune on heating costs.
Attic to Foundation offers professional inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in the greater Atlanta area. Contact us to request an appointment.