Winter is already unbearable, higher utility bills do not make it any better. The average person sees a significant increase in their utility bills every winter. While you may not be able to control what happens outside of your home, you can certainly reign in the cost of heating your home throughout the winter. This is especially true when you have children at home that are more susceptible to catching colds, since you have a need to keep them warm and comfortable. In this article, we will explore the best methods of maintaining a comfortable and affordable indoor temperature for you and your kids.
Limit the Drafts
Drafts typically come from windows and doors within your home. In order to counteract this phenomena, it is recommended that you re-caulk your window and door seals. In addition, purchasing weather stripping is a great idea as well. Many doors develop a gap over time. You can easily remedy this issue by installing a draft snake. They are relatively inexpensive and easily slip under your doors. Lastly, use curtains that are well insulated. Consider them your last line of defense. Keep them open during the day to allow the heat from the sun to get in, but ensure that you close them tightly at night to avoid unwanted drafts.
Maintain Your Heating System
Schedule yearly maintenance for your furnace before winter arrives. It is best to schedule your appointment at the end of the summer or the beginning of fall. This will ensure that your system is up to par and has the capability of making it through a rough winter. In addition, closing the vents in the rooms that are rarely used is great for efficiently heating your home, using less energy and decreasing the amount a wear and tear on your furnace. Lastly, be sure to regularly change your furnace filter. There are a number of online retailers that offer great furnace filters at an affordable rate. When your furnace filter is high quality and in good working condition, not only will it serve to keep your home much warmer, it will also help to save you money on your monthly utility bill.
Easy Tips to Keep Your Home Warm and Bills Low
In addition to the aforementioned, there are a few tips below that should help you to shave a few dollars off of your heating bills during the winter months.
- Turn Down Your Thermostat: This may sound counterintuitive, but having your heat on a high temperature at night or when you are not home is a waste of money and energy. If you cannot remember to regulate the temperature yourself, invest in an automated thermostat.
- Purchase Warm Pajamas: You and your children can comfortably turn the thermostat down if you purchase pajamas or house clothes made of wool, fleece, etc.
- Have Your Insulation Checked: Heat typically escapes your home due to lack of proper insulation in your walls and roof.
After you have used the tips outlined in this article, you will officially be prepared for a warm and money saving winter.