Winter brings colder temperatures, snow, and higher energy bills. You can heat your home efficiently this winter with simple tips and tricks. Here are some actionable ways to keep your house warm and your utility bill low.
Use Insulated Curtains to Heat Your Home Efficiently
One simple (and inexpensive) way to keep cold air out is to install insulated curtains. These materials will trap warm air inside while blocking cold drafts from entering through the windows. Thermal curtains are lined with a layer of insulating material such as foam or cotton batting, which holds heat during the winter and keeps cool air out in the summer months.
Seal Gaps
Check for gaps or cracks around doors and windows that allow cold air into your home. Use caulk or weatherstripping to fill gaps. Caulking is an inexpensive way to seal holes around pipes or wires that pass through exterior walls too. Verify all exterior doors have a tight-fitting door sweep on their bottom edges – this will prevent cold air from coming in from under the door.
Heat Your Home Efficiently: Install a Smart Thermostat
Installing a smart thermostat reduces energy consumption by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home (or asleep). Program the thermostat to return to a comfortable temperature when you are home. Smart thermostats learn your preferences over time, so they can adjust the temperature accordingly without making constant manual adjustments yourself. Some models even feature Alexa integration, so you can ask Alexa to change the temperature without leaving the couch.
Maximize Sun Exposure
When the sun is out in the winter, open blinds and curtains on windows facing south. Natural sunlight provides warmth while reducing energy costs associated with heating your home. Invest in insulating blinds or curtains for windows, as these can be opened during sunny days and closed at night to hold heat inside the house.
Change the HVAC Filter
One of the simplest and most effective ways to increase efficiency is to change the HVAC filter regularly. A clean filter allows air to circulate freely through the system. Clogged filters restrict airflow, making it harder for the HVAC unit to heat effectively and increasing energy consumption. Change the filter every 30 to 90 days to improve indoor air quality and save money on energy bills.
Heating your home efficiently doesn’t have to break the bank. With the above tips, you can save on energy costs while keeping yourself cozy during the winter.
Red Roof Home Inspections offers inspection services in the Triad area of North Carolina and in Central Virginia. Contact us to request an appointment.