With winter comes the cold, and with the cold comes the high cost of heating bills. But there are ways to keep warm without spending a lot of money. Here are tips for staying warm in winter without breaking the bank.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day and night. For example, you can set it to be cooler when you’re sleeping or not home and warmer when you’re awake and using the space. This can help you save money on your energy bill because you’re not heating an empty house.
Dress in Layers
Layering clothing helps trap heat, keeping you warm even when the temperature outside is cold. You can start with a base layer of long underwear, a layer of pants and a shirt. Then, add a sweater or jacket for extra warmth.
Hats and scarves are relatively inexpensive items that can make a big difference in how comfortable you are in cold weather. Hats keep your head and ears warm, preventing you from getting sick and helping you feel more comfortable. Scarves do the same for your neck and can be pulled over your mouth to protect your lungs from the cold air.
Add Weather Stripping to Your Doors and Windows
Weatherstripping is a material that helps to seal off any gaps where air can come in or out. It comes in many forms, so you can choose what will work best for your home. Once installed, you should notice a difference in the temperature inside your home and your energy bill.
If you’re unsure how to install weather stripping, plenty of resources are available online or at your local hardware store. With a little time and effort, you can keep your home cozy all winter long without breaking the bank.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fan
Most people think ceiling fans are a way to stay cool in the summertime. But did you know that they can also circulate warm air in the winter? When you reverse your ceiling fan, it rotates clockwise instead of counterclockwise. This pushes warm air near the ceiling into the living space where you need it most.
Drink Warm Drinks
Warm drinks are perfect for sipping on chilly days and help ward off the winter blues. They can be made with milk, water, or even tea and are often spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves.
Drink them slowly. Sipping your drink will help you savor it and keep you from getting too full too quickly. Additionally, make them ahead of time. Having a thermos of warm tea or coffee ready will save you time and money when trying to get out the door on a cold winter morning.
Stay Active
Even if you’re not participating in strenuous activity, simply moving around will help to generate heat and keep your body temperature up. Taking a brisk walk or doing light indoor exercises can make a big difference.
Let the Sun In
During the day, open your curtains and blinds to let the sun’s natural warmth into your home. You can also move furniture around, so it’s in the sunniest spot in the room. At night, close your curtains and blinds to keep the heat in.
Conclusion
Follow these tips to stay warm in winter without breaking the bank: dress in layers, wear a good coat, get a quality pair of boots, and make your home more energy-efficient. And if you’re still having trouble staying warm, call Triangle AC for all your heating and cooling needs!
