The winter is here, and you probably have two goals: Keep your house warm, and save money on your electric bill. Here are some tips that will help you do both at the same time.
Seal Your Doors
Doors can let in a lot of cold air, especially if you have a draft underneath. Use a draft blocker to seal up the bottom of your doors. A rolled-up towel works just fine, too.
Seal Your Windows
Check for drafts on all your windows using a lit candle or incense stick. When you find drafts, use weather-stripping tape to seal them up.
Use Insulated Curtains
Insulated curtains installed on your windows will do a great job keeping out the cold air. You can purchase curtains with insulated backing. The investment will save you lots of money on your heating bill in the long-run.
Insulate Your Water Heater
Purchase an insulation blanket for your water heater, especially if it’s located in the basement or other cold place. The insulation will minimize the effect of the cold air on the tank and water.
Use Your Ceiling Fans
If you can change your ceiling fans’ spin direction to its winter setting – clockwise – it can help to push hot air down, and it’s especially helpful for high or cathedral ceilings. Use it on a low setting, but turn it off if it’s making your feel cooler.
Seal Your Chimney
Using the fireplace in the winter to stay warm can be counterproductive, because you need to leave the flue open, which lets in cold air. Close the flue, instead. At the very least, install glass fireplace doors to help keep cold air out of the house.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable, electronic thermostat will help you precisely regulate the temperature of your home. You can choose a setting that will keep you comfortable, and it will be maintained. Program it to lower at certain times, like during your work day.
Check Insulation
Check the insulation in your home, especially in your attic, and make sure there is insulation everywhere. Also insulate exposed pipes to keep them from freezing.
Move Furniture
If you have any furniture in front of heating vents, it will prevent the hot air from warming up the room, causing you to use more heat. Move furniture away from any vents so they’re not blocked.
Close Room Doors
If you’re not in or using a room, close the door. It will help keep the heat in the room that you need it the most, rather than traveling all over the house.
Change the Air Filter
You should change you heater’s air filter at the beginning of the season to keep it running as efficiently as possible. Then, change it again in two months.
Get a Tune Up
Investing in an inspection by a HVAC technician for your heater is a good way to make sure your heater has no problems that could be causing it to waste energy or work inefficiently.
Charlie Smith writes for Moshells. He is an environmentalist and interior designer currently living in Ohio
Money Saving Tips To Keep Your House Warm This Winter
