How to Stay Warm in Your Home While Cutting Down Costs
How to Stay Warm in Your Home While Cutting Down Costs
We usually dread the impact cold weather has on our bills. Regardless of how we heat our homes. Whether it’s with an AC unit, a fireplace or gas, the expenses are always higher during winter. We are always looking for ways to save some money. You’ll be glad to know that that doesn’t have to affect the warmth of your home. Here are some simple ways to cut down your costs while staying cozy.
Allow the air to circulate
In order for the warm air to circulate and warm up the room, you have to make sure there is nothing in its way. If there is some furniture close to your source of heat, move it away. Sure, it’s nice to sit close to your furnace or AC, but that way, only you will be warm and the rest of the house will not heat up properly.
Don’t set your temperature too high
It’s important to understand that you should not crank up the temperature inside just because it’s very cold outside. Keep the temperature between 20 and 22 °C (68-72 °F) during the day and at 19 °C or 66 °F at night or when no one is home. People tend to sleep better in cooler rooms so don’t turn your bedroom into a sauna.
You can install a smart thermostat, for instance. That can help you control the temperature even when you are not at home and you will not waste as much energy.
Conduct regular maintenance
If you use your AC to keep you warm during winter, chances are you also use it to keep cool during summer, especially if you live in hot places like Australia. That means that you need to perform annual check-ups to make sure everything is working properly. Luckily for you, if you notice an issue, professionals for a quick AC repair are easy to find.
Furthermore, check whether you are losing heat anywhere. Make sure your windows and doors are properly installed. If they are of the older variety, think about replacing them with double-glazed models. Look into your insulation, and especially pay attention to your attic as that is where a lot of heat is lost. In case you don’t have insulation, you should invest in it. Depending on the size of your home, it might be pricy but the results will be more than worth it. In addition, adding a rug can provide you with extra insulation and it will keep your feet warm.
Get a lot of warm clothes and throws
Another thing you cannot forget about is being properly dressed. You might want to stay in shorts and a T-shirt inside, but when it’s very cold outside, that is just not good for you. So, make sure you are dressed in comfy and warm clothes. Get sweatpants, hoodies and sweaters and some thermal socks as well, in case your feet get cold. You probably already own most of these items, so it will not come as a huge blow to your budget.
Furthermore, if you work from home and lead a mostly sedentary lifestyle, you can think about getting some blankets that will keep you cozy. Keep some in the living room as well when you want to cuddle up and watch a movie. If you think your duvet is not enough to keep you warm during the night, add a few throws on the bed too.
Setting a reasonable temperature, performing annual checks and wearing proper clothing can be enough to keep you warm in your cozy abode. If you notice an issue, react as soon as possible to prevent any need for major repair works.