Friday, January 27, 2023

6 Winter Hacks to Keep Your Home Warm (And Save You Money!)

As we get further into winter, it’s more important than ever to make sure that your home is warm and comfortable. Whether you live in a frigid climate or are just trying to make the most of slightly cooler temperatures, it’s always a good idea to consider ways to make the most of your heating costs.

Outside of larger renovations to your home such as replacing windows with better-insulated versions or adding more insulation to your entire home, there are some additional ways you can help to keep your heating costs at bay.

Today we’re sharing some of our top tips for keeping your space as comfortable as possible while maximizing your heating budget for your home.

Seal Windows and Doors

This is the number one culprit of losing heat in your home. Cracks around windows and doors can seep surprisingly large amounts of warm air when left unchecked. Scan your home’s windows and doors for gaps or cracks around windows and doors, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Particularly for the smart home geek, this home upgrade will make your life easier as well as help to save your family money on utility costs. A programmable thermostat allows you to set a consistent temperature in your home, allowing it to only run as much as is needed. This is excellent for when you’re gone for long periods throughout the day. Turn down the temperature while you’re gone, and have it automatically warm up when you’ll return home so you aren’t paying for it needlessly. Some smart thermostats even enable you to control your home’s temperature from anywhere using an app!

Use Draft Stoppers

Draft stoppers can be placed at the bottom of doors to prevent cold air from entering through gaps. When used in conjunction with caulking cracks around your doors, this will make a major difference in the heating that is lost around your home’s doorways. These are often available in fun colors, patterns, and even characters! You’re sure to find some that fit your home’s aesthetics as well as your heating needs.

Use Rugs and Carpets

Rugs and carpets can help insulate your floors and keep your feet warm, as well as add a stylish and cozy touch to any space. Some common spaces to add rugs include living areas, offices, and bedrooms, but don’t let that limit you! Think of other spaces to add carpeting or rugs to warm things up – maybe your kitchen, bathroom, or hallway!

Use Heavy Curtains

Heavy curtains can help insulate windows and keep warm air in. The best part about curtains? They also add a cozy, homey element, and can be found to match just about any design style!

For a bonus tip, make sure you’re opening your curtains and blinds during the day when it’s sunny. This is a free heat source that will gradually warm up your home simply by the light coming in! Then close them again at the end of the day to keep cold air from coming inside.

Use Space Heaters

If you’re more interested in warming small spaces rather than keeping your whole home warmer in the winter months, space heaters can provide additional warmth in specific areas of your home. However, they can be dangerous when not used properly, so be sure to use them safely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

No matter what your ideal temperature is during the winter months, no one likes to be cold or to overpay for their heating bill. This season, give one or more of these home hacks a try to make your home as cozy and comfortable as it can be. As an added bonus, you’ll save some money too!

Regardless of price point, our team is united in their efforts to support the client, support each other, and get the job done in the best way possible. Paula Higman Real Estate is a unique team of talented and diverse individuals with a passion for success and client satisfaction.

Contact Paula Higman today and let us take this journey with you to marketing and selling your home for the best value, to the biggest luxury real estate market out there.