12 Ways To Keep Your House Warm In The Winter

During the winter months we all want to stay warm without our heating bills going through the roof. So to help keep your heating bills in check while staying cozy and warm, here are some things you can do to help improve the warmth of your space.

1) Install a Programmable Thermostat

The best way to help control heating bill costs and keep your home warm is to use a programmable thermostat. It is more efficient to lower the temp just a few degrees while you are not home, and then have the thermostat turn on to warm up the house before you come home. This is a lot more efficient than just lowing your heat all the way when you're not home, then raising it when you return. The energy spent to make up for such drastic changes defeats the purpose of using the lower setting.

2) Seal Window Frame Cracks

In Wyoming with our chilly winter winds, it is important to check for cracks in your window frames. Even a tiny crack can allow a ton of heat to escape. Rachel Rothman, technical and engineering director at the Good Housekeeping Institute, recommends using a flashlight or candle to check for drafts. At night, just have someone stand on the other side of your light source and if you can see it, you should caulk the area to seal the crack.

3) Reverse Ceiling Fan Direction

In the winter time reverse the motor in your ceiling fan to run clockwise. The fan creates an updraft that actually pushes warm air near the ceiling back down to help you feel warmer.

4) Make Your Curtains Work Harder

When the sun is out keep your shades open so to create a warming effect as the sun shines onto the glass. At night close them up to add extra insulation against the cold. You can also use blackout curtains/ shades with a thermal lining to help save energy.

5) Use Draft Stoppers On Your Doors

Don't let cold air creep through the cracks under your doors. All you need to seal off the chilly breeze is a door stopper.

6) Cover Your Floors With Rugs

Did you know heat can escape through floor boards? To prevent this from happening put down rugs that are made from insulated fabric like wool. The rugs will help trap heat inside. Plus, rugs feel nice and cozy on your feet.

7) Prevent Drafts Around Electric Outlets

To help block air that leaks out of electrical outlets, pick up an outlet insulator from your local home improvement store. They're basically foam sheets that you put behind the face plate to block any cold air.

8) Close Off Rooms You Don't Use Often

Closing doors and vents to rooms that are not used very often will help cut down on heating costs.

9) Use The Oven And Stove For Cooking

The oven and stove both generate heat in your kitchen. Using the stove and oven often will add heat to your home. After you are finished using your oven remember to leave the oven door open. This will allow the hot air to escape and add heat to the room. However, be cautious about doing this if you have children or pets; make sure they can't reach the hot oven door or inside the oven.

10) Use A Humidifier

Humid air generally feels quite a bit warmer than dry air. And running the heat in the colder months can strip your indoor air of its humidity. To balance this, consider using a humidifier. Look for the models that allow you to choose between warm and cold air; they typically cost more but are well worth it for the heating ability. Another way to get more humidity into your home is to leave the bathroom door wide open after your shower, so the humidity can spread to other parts of the house.

11) Clear Heat Vents, Registers, And Radiators

It's recommended to have your heating system inspected annually. It's also important to make sure the heat can adequately warm your space. Pull furniture, curtains, and other items away from heat vents, registers, and radiators. If they're blocked, the heat won't be able to circulate.

12) Are the Dampers Open?

Some ductwork contains dampers to adjust airflow. Look for handles and markings on the ductwork such as ‘summer’ and ‘winter.’ Set the damper handle parallel to the duct line for maximum airflow.