5 Inexpensive Ways to Keep Your House Warm in Winter

Though winter brings in bright Christmas lights and fireworks, it also leaves you to deal with extremely cold weather which could lead to a runny nose or even worse, hypothermia if you don’t have proper heating in your home.

Big, costly projects like replacing all of your windows or adding attic insulation aren’t the only options you have. There are plenty of inexpensive techniques and changes you can make to save money.

Here are a few simple things you can do to cut down on your heating bills while keeping your house warm during the winter season.

Use Thick Curtains or Shutters

Since replacing your single-glazed windows can cost a lot, getting thick curtains is the more cost-effective alternative. Thick curtains can keep the cold out more efficiently.

If thick, thermal-lined curtains are also out of your price range, then add shutters to all of your windows. They can keep the heat trapped inside your home and are better than blinds and most other window treatments.

Change the Ceiling Fans’ Settings

A lot of people don’t realize that their ceiling fans aren’t only for cooling in warm months. While the fan turns in counter-clockwise in summer and brings in cool air, you can install a reverse switch to turn your fan the other way.

When ceiling fans spin in a clockwise motion, they help bring the heated air down in rooms with high-sloped or cathedral ceilings. Ideally, you should run the fan at its lowest speed.

Place Rugs on the Floor

Rugs are quite aesthetically pleasing to look at and add personality to your home throughout the year, but in winter, they can significantly help prevent heat loss and keep your feet warm.

If a simple rug isn’t enough for you, installing heating pads under them is also a great option. Though it may cost a little more, the comfort and coziness are worth the price.

Block the Chimney

Chimneys and fireplaces are usually the centers of attention in a living area but when unused, they can invite unwelcomed draughts and heat loss. It’s better to block your chimney, especially if you don’t use the fireplace. Most homeowners use electric or gas heaters in winter.

Though you can’t simply close off the top of the chimney, especially if you need to use the fireplace every once in a while. Another way to get the most out of your heat source is to keep your furniture away from the radiator, so it doesn’t absorb the heat that could be warming your home.

Let the Sun in at Daytime

Never keep your curtains and shutters closed during the day when the sun is out. Take advantage of the free energy and warmth of the sunlight. It’s recommended to sit in the sun for at least 15 to 20 minutes a day to reap all the benefits.

Exposure to morning sunlight not only provides warmth but also improves your immunity. In winter, many people develop low vitamin D levels simply due to a lack of sun exposure.