If you are often turning up the thermostat or reaching for blankets during winter, you may need to make a few improvements to your home and lifestyle. A handful of changes could help combat chilly temperatures and rising energy costs, ensuring you feel cozy and comfortable all season long.
A few improvements and investments may make a dramatic difference to your home’s temperature. To keep the heat in, read the following four ways to create a warmer property this winter.
1. Identify Where You’re Losing Heat
Did you feel unusually cold last winter? Spend a little time identifying the cause of the problem to feel warmer once temperatures start to drop.
You could have a draft around your windows, doors, and floors, which allows warm air to escape and cold air to enter.
If you are unsure where a draft is coming from, use a lit incense stick or place the back of your hand near them. If the smoke wavers or you feel a cold spot against your hand, you have found a draft.
You should then seal any gaps around your windows, doors, and floorboards using caulk or weatherstripping. Don’t forget to draft-proof various outlets and switch plates, too. You might be surprised by the difference it makes to your home.
2. Small Changes Make a Big Difference
Little changes will make a dramatic difference to your home this winter. Create a cozier environment by closing your curtains once the sun goes down and opening them during the day to naturally increase your home’s temperature.
You should also close any doors to rooms you are not planning to use and place a draft stopper at the bottom of various doors.
3. Arrange a Dependable Heating Oil Delivery
If you are one of the millions of Americans using heating oil to warm up your home, order early to prevent running out this winter.
Also, choose a dependable company so you never run low during colder seasons. You can even set up an automatic heating oil delivery to enjoy a comfortable home throughout the season.
As the supplier learns your home’s heating needs over time, it keeps your tank topped up so your home feels warm all winter long.
4. Big Investments Lead to Greater Energy Savings
As well as making small changes to heat up your home this winter, it might be worthwhile making a few bigger investments to lower your energy bills.
You could warm up your interior with:
- Attic insulation
- Double- or triple-pane windows
- Smart thermostats
- Radiant floor heating
- Wood or pellet stoves
- Wall insulation
- A new furnace or boiler
- Heat pumps
- ENERGY STAR-certified windows and doors – look for insulated exterior doors
Many grants and programs may be available to help fund the cost of the above, such as the Weatherization Assistance Program for low-income households. Also, learn more about state rebate programs to secure a home energy rebate for one or more energy-efficient upgrades. They could help you enjoy a warm winter without damaging your finances.