Winter is a time for celebration, but it can also be a costly time. When the cold weather sets in and the furnace fires up, you may find yourself wondering how to keep your heating costs down while still staying warm. This article will discuss some ways that you can reduce heating costs during the winter months.
1. Keep blinds open for sunlight during the day
During the day, keep your blinds open when it’s sunny out to let in as much heat from the sun as you can. This is an excellent option if you have large south-facing windows that get lots of direct sunlight – which most people do! If not, try investing in some heavy curtains or bring them down halfway throughout the day to allow warm air back into your home while blocking out cold drafts and snowfall outside.
2. Ensure doors and windows are sealed
Check your doors and windows to make sure that they’re sealed tight. If you find leaks, use some caulk or weather stripping around the edges of the doorways. This will help keep cold air from seeping in when you’re trying to heat a room. Next, try caulking them with silicone (or whatever type of sealant is most appropriate for large spaces). If this doesn’t work, invest in new window treatments like blinds or curtains – these can go a long way towards keeping drafts out during the winter months. You should also check all vent openings to ensure there aren’t any cracks between it and other surfaces where air might be escaping. These are often found near fireplaces, heating ducts, and under the kitchen sink.
3. Use efficient heating systems
There are many ways to heat your home during the cold months. One option is electric radiant heating panels installed under flooring or countertops and ducted into rooms as needed. These systems come in various sizes (some even small enough for bathrooms), so there’s something to fit any sized space. Another excellent choice is infrared heaters; these use tubes filled with special gases like natural gas or propane instead of electricity, making them more efficient than standard baseboard units. Finally, if you’re looking at options outside of new installations, consider investing in high-efficiency furnaces.
4. Insulate your roof
When your roof is well insulated, the inside of your home stays warmer. This prevents heat loss through the top of your house, where it’s often exposed to drafts and cold air. The best way to insulate a roof is with spray foam insulation that fills all cracks between boards – this type of insulation helps prevent hot or cool air from seeping in! If you don’t want to make structural repairs, consider investing in simple weatherproofing like plastic sheets (these will keep water out) or strap-on tarps for significant gaps. You can also seal up any leaks around vents on the exterior side using caulk; silicone, polyurethane caulks are great choices since they’re flexible enough not to break easily under snow or ice.
Reducing heating costs during the winter months is made more accessible by following these simple steps. Which one will you try first?