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7 Ways to Keep Your Home Comfortable This Winter
When the temperatures outside dip, we first want to crank up the heat inside. However, anyone who's ever received an unexpectedly high energy bill knows that this isn't always the best solution—especially if you're on a budget. Fortunately, you can do several things to keep your home comfortable this winter without driving up your heating costs. Keep reading to see how to keep your home warm for less!
1. Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is one of the best investments you can make if you're looking to save on your energy bills. By programming it to lower the temperature when you're away or asleep, you can significantly reduce how much heat your home uses daily. Plus, many newer models can even be controlled from your smartphone, so you can ensure your home is always at the perfect temperature—no matter where you are.
2. Reverse Your Ceiling Fan Direction
In the summertime, we rely on ceiling fans to help circulate cool air throughout our homes. But did you know that they can also be used to help distribute warmth in the winter? By reversing the direction of your ceiling fan blades (so they spin clockwise), you can push warm air down from the ceiling and into the living space below. Just be sure to switch them back in the spring!
3. Add Floor Coverings
Rugs and carpets are stylish additions to any room and can help keep your feet warm in the wintertime. If you have hardwood or tile floors, consider adding an area rugto help insulate against the chill. Not only will your toes stay toasty, but your heating bill will also thank you!
4. Hang Heavy Curtains
Do drafty windows have you reaching for a blanket every time you walk by? If so, it's time to invest in some heavy curtains! Not only will they block out drafts, but they'll also help keep heat from escaping through your windows—keeping your home warmer. Just be sure to open them during the day to let in some natural sunlight—it'll help heat things up and chase away those winter blues!
5. Lower Your Water Heater Temperature
Did you know that water heaters are actually one of the biggest energy hogs in most homes? Fortunately, there's an easy way to change that: simply lower the temperature of your water heater! Most people have their water heaters set too high, which wastes energy and can also be dangerous (if it's set too high, it could scald someone). For most households, setting it somewhere between 120-140 degrees should suffice.
6. Get a Humidifier
Dry air not only feels chilly—it is colder than moist air of the same temperature! That's why using a humidifier in your home can make it feel warmer—without raising the temperature one degree. Plus, humidifiers have many other benefits, like relieving sinus congestion and making furniture and wood floors last longer (by preventing them from drying out and cracking). Win-win!
7. Use Plants for Warmth
Do you have any plants growing near drafty windows or doors? If so, consider moving them inside for the winter! Not only will they appreciate being in a warmer environment, but they'll also help absorb some unwanted cold air coming into your home. Just be sure to put them back outside once things start warming up again in spring—they won't fare well if left indoors for too long!