Winter is coming, and unless you’re planning to hibernate (which, let’s face it, sounds pretty good), you’re going to want to keep your house warm without turning your heating bill into your worst nightmare. Luckily, we’ve got some simple, smart tricks to keep your home feeling toasty without needing to crank the heat.
- Heavy Curtains: Your New Best Friends
Windows are like open invitations for cold air to come and hang out in your home. But guess what? Thick, heavy curtains are basically the bouncers of your house—they'll stop the cold in its tracks. Here’s the plan:
Close ‘em up at night**: Keep that nighttime chill out where it belongs. Open them during the day : Let the sun do some of the hard work for you. Mother Nature’s heating is free, after all!
2. Block Those Pesky Drafts
You might think those little gaps around your doors and windows aren’t a big deal, but they’re basically highways for cold air. Slap on some draft stoppers or weatherstripping , and it’s like building a wall between your cozy living room and the Arctic tundra outside. Even better? Seal those sneaky cracks with caulk. Your home will feel like a whole new place. Natural Resources Canada says this can save you up to 15% on heat loss. Not bad for a little DIY!
3. Rugs: Warm Feet, Warm House
If you’ve ever stepped onto an ice-cold floor in the morning, you know what I’m talking about. Adding thick rugs to your hard floors is a sneaky way to keep warmth from slipping away through the cracks. Plus, your feet will thank you. It’s the cozy vibe you didn’t know you needed.
4. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans -Yep, They Can Help!
I know, you’re thinking: Ceiling fans? In winter? But hear me out—by switching your fan to spin in reverse, you can push all that delicious warm air from the ceiling back down where you actually need it. It’s one of those “how did I not know this?” tricks that’ll make your home feel much warmer, without costing a penny.
5. Programmable Thermostats: The Smart Way to Save
Why heat an empty house? Set your thermostat to drop the temp while you’re out or asleep, and watch those savings roll in. Then, have it crank the heat back up right before you get home—cozy and efficient. Hydro One says this little trick could save you up to 10% on your heating bill. You’re welcome.
Bonus Tip: Shut Down the Chimney Draft
Not using that fireplace? You might as well leave a window open if you’re not blocking the chimney draft. Stick a chimney draft excluder (aka “chimney balloon”) up there, and stop heat from escaping. Just don’t forget to remove it before your next fire—you don’t want to roast marshmallows on a balloon.
Conclusion
There you have it—five easy, low-cost tricks to keep your home feeling like a cozy cabin this winter, without sending your heating bill through the roof. If you’re ready for a bigger project, like insulation upgrades or energy-efficient windows, give SCC Builds a shout. We’ve got you covered for all things warm and winter-proof!
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