The cold has snuck in and made itself known with a vengeance. And with that, you’re probably prepping to keep your house warm for the colder temperatures. But, that also means bracing for hefty electricity bills come month end.
Luckily, we’ve got a few tips up our gloves to help you keep your house warm this winter, without breaking the bank.
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ALSO SEE: Finding the best heater for household use in winter
Let the sunshine in
Use natural heat
Take advantage of sunny winter days by letting natural light in. Open your curtains and blinds during the day to allow sunlight to warm your rooms. Sunlight not only heats your space but also brings a cheerful ambience to your home.
Block the chill
Once the sun sets, close your curtains to keep the warmth in. Heavy or thermal curtains work best as they act as an extra layer of insulation. You can even line your existing curtains with fleece or thermal liners for added warmth.
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Insulate
DIY window insulation
Windows are notorious for letting the cold in. You can easily insulate them with plastic window film. This invisible barrier helps to trap heat inside your home. Alternatively, bubble wrap is a great low-cost option—simply spray a bit of water on the window and press the bubble wrap onto it.
Draft-proof your home
Drafts are a major culprit of heat loss. Use draft stoppers on doors and windows to block the cold air. You can make your own draft stoppers by filling a fabric tube with rice or beans. Seal gaps around doors and windows with weather stripping or caulking to keep the warmth inside.
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Keep the heat in
Use rugs and carpets
Bare floors can be a source of cold. Cover them with rugs or carpets to add an extra layer of insulation. Not only do they keep your feet warm, but they also prevent heat from escaping through the floor. Plus, they add a cosy touch to your home décor.
Close off unused rooms
Heat only the rooms you use frequently. Close the doors to unused rooms to prevent heat from circulating there. This way, your heater works more efficiently, warming up the spaces you need without wasting energy.
Use heaters sparingly
Heaters can be a quick way to warm up a room, but they can also be energy hogs. Use them in small, closed-off spaces rather than trying to heat large areas. Look for energy-efficient models and always turn them off when you leave the room.
Layer up
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Dress for the season
Embrace the art of layering. Wear thermal underwear, cosy sweaters, and wool socks to keep warm without cranking up the heat. Invest in a good pair of slippers to keep your feet warm and comfortable around the house.
Snuggle under blankets
Keep blankets and throws on your sofas and chairs for easy access. There’s nothing better than curling up under a soft, warm blanket with a good book or a cup of hot chocolate. Consider using an electric blanket for your bed—just be sure to turn it off before you fall asleep.
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Additional tips
Use heat reflectors
Place heat reflectors behind radiators to direct heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through the walls. You can make your own by covering cardboard with aluminium foil or purchasing ready-made reflectors from hardware stores.
Cook up some warmth
Winter is the perfect time for baking and cooking hearty meals. Use your oven and stove to warm up your kitchen. Leave the oven door open after baking to let the residual heat flow into the room (just make sure it’s safe and away from children and pets).
Embrace warm lighting
Switch to warmer lighting in your home. Incandescent or LED bulbs with a warm hue can make your space feel cosier and warmer, creating a welcoming atmosphere without increasing your electricity bill.
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