6 Tips for Staying Warm in the Winter

The colder winter months can bring images of cozy sweaters, evenings by a fire, and warm cups of cocoa. It can also bring chilly rooms and substantially higher home energy costs.

You can avoid sticker shock with your monthly heating bill, and stay toasty and comfortable throughout the winter with a little preparation. Here are six easy tips for staying warm in the winter.

1. Sealing It Up

There are plenty of places that, if not properly sealed, can allow your warm air to escape and cold air to come in. Winterize your home by making sure that drafty areas are sealed and everything is insulated properly.

Caulk cracks around doors and windows, and seal around windows with a self-adhesive foam or tape. And while not the most stylish of options, window sealing kits can help cut energy costs.

Make sure there is adequate insulation in your attic to keep heat from leaking through the roof. Reusable blanket insulation is a great economical option for additional insulation in your home.

2. Reverse Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans might seem like they are only good for warm weather use. But they are actually a great tool for redistributing warm air and keeping it from rising to the ceiling and heating unused space in the house.

In fact, running a ceiling fan in a gentle clockwise direction pushes the heat back down and can save up 15% on heating costs.

3. Check Your Heating Sources

HVACs, boilers, furnaces, and chimneys should all be checked and given routine maintenance before the cold weather sets in.

Make sure your furnace has a clean filter, and seal off the fireplace if you are not planning on using it to keep heat from escaping. If it is going to be in use, make sure it has been clean and is safe to use.

4. Layers for Your Home and Yourself

Layering rugs on your floor is a great extra layer of insulation for keeping the heat in and keeping your feet warmer.

Switching to insulated curtains can help block out drafts from windows. Keeping extra blankets, especially heated blankets, to snuggle with can help keep the chill at bay.

5. Set Your Thermostat for Staying Warm This Winter

Using a programmable thermostat can help keep you warm and save you money.

Using a programmable thermostat to adjust the thermostat when you are sleeping or away from home can help you save up to 10% a year on energy bills.

6. Stay Active

One simple tip for staying warm in the winter is to keep the body moving. A body in motion generates body heat, so getting up and about can help you feel warm.

Aside from a good workout, light housework or a fun game can get the blood pumping. Consider even setting a timer to remind yourself to get up and move around.

A Warm House Is a Happy Home

Staying warm in the winter doesn’t have to break the bank. Just a little prep work and creative thinking can help you stay cozy even in the coldest of months.

Be sure to check out our other home improvement articles for great ideas on how to make your house a home. We also cover topics from fashion and entertainment to sports and fitness.