As the colder months approach, you’ll probably be running your home’s heater more than you’re comfortable with. Gas and electric bills tend to skyrocket in the fall, winter, and early spring, and limiting heater usage can help you cut costs.
Don’t worry, we’re not here to suggest wearing long underwear or setting your thermostat to 60 degrees — although according to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% on heating costs by lowering the temperature 8 to 10 degrees for eight hours per day.
There are several tricks that can keep your house warm while still conserving energy when the temperature drops. Some require a bit of investment, but any money spent will ultimately help lower your gas and electric bills. And staying warm while saving money is a win for your wallet. Here are six reasonable hacks for keeping your house warm that don’t involve cranking up the heat.
Fill Window Cracks With Caulk
Gaps around windows let heat out and cool air in during the colder months, which may cause your energy bill to balloon. Small cracks and gaps can be filled with caulk. To find those areas, feel around for wind blowing through and look for crumbled caulk or cracks in the window trim and seams. You can also use a lit incense stick or candle (keeping a safe distance from any flammable items) to identify drafts. Remove the existing caulk and clean the area, allowing it to dry completely before applying fresh caulk with a caulking gun. Use a putty knife or a wet fingertip to smooth the silicone and apply more if it shrinks after drying. Bonus: Caulking can also be beneficial in the summer to keep the heat out.
Invest in Thermal Curtains
Thermal curtains look just like regular curtains, except they’re designed to insulate your windows, keeping cold air out in the colder months and warm air out in the warmer months. They also double as blackout curtains, which is a perk for light-sensitive sleepers. Thermal curtains may sound like they would be an eyesore, but there are plenty of chic and trendy colors, patterns, and textures to choose from.
Run a Humidifier
Using a humidifier in the winter can make your home feel warmer by adding moisture to the air. While it won’t raise the temperature of a room, a humidifier will balance the moisture levels and hold on to heat better. Beyond keeping you cozy, a humidifier can help prevent dry skin, reduce airborne virus transmission, and protect hardwood floors from gapping and cracking.
Use Window Film
Air makes a good insulator, so window film is a great way to maintain the temperature of your home when the mercury plummets. When window film is applied, the air trapped between the glass and the film adds a layer of insulation between the cold glass and the interior of your home. The window film you purchase will come with instructions as to how to apply it, but it’s generally a pretty quick and painless job. If you pull the window film taut (using a hair dryer helps make it more pliable) and trim the excess, you’ll be able to open the window as normal. Opt for transparent window film if you want to let the sun in, or frosted if you’re looking to add privacy.
Place Draft Stoppers in Front of Doors
You can buy a good set of draft stoppers for less than $20, and although they won’t fully weatherproof your home, they can significantly reduce heat loss through door cracks. Most draft stoppers available for purchase are made from foam or silicone and easily slip under the bottom of a door. You can also DIY them using fabric and a weighted filling such as pebbles, beads, or even cat litter.
Get a Smart Thermostat
Buying a smart thermostat might set you back a bit when it comes to price, but it’ll pay off when you get your bill. The intelligent component of the thermostat will learn your temperature preferences and establish a schedule that automatically switches to energy-saving temperatures when you’re asleep or away. A study by ENERGY STAR found that smart thermostats certified by the government-backed program save households about 8% on their heating and cooling bills. A smart thermostat can replace a regular one, but the installation can be a bit more complex, so you may need to hire a professional electrician.
Any combination of these hacks can make your house feel warmer this winter without you needing to pile on layers or huddle around a space heater. By making a few easy improvements and spending strategically, you can lower your heating costs and hunker down in cozy comfort.
