We have certainly experienced a small shift in morning temperatures this week as we edge closer to Winter. As the weather starts to cool down, and the sun appears less, now is a good time to take a look at ways you can decrease your heater usages for our upcoming colder months.
Heating your home all Winter long can certainly add up fast, and extra time at home at the moment will only add to the power bill.
Take a look at these problem areas of the home, and prepare, as Winter Is Coming. (We sure hope some of you got that reference!)
Close up any cracks in your window frame
The tiniest crack can allow a tonne of heat to escape and for chilly winds to come in. Use a torch at nighttime to check for any unnoticed cracks, have someone stand on the other side of your light source and if you can see it, caulk the area to seal the crack.
Reverse the ceiling fan direction
Ceiling fans are just for hot, humid days – think again. By reversing the motor in the Winter, so it’s clockwise. The fan creates an updraft which pushes the hot air near the ceiling back down. This trick is one that is commonly missed by many, and is going to help keep you warmer for longer, meaning you can lower your heating and energy costs.
Invest in the best
This may be a rhetorical question, but is there really a better feeling than getting toasty under a pile of thick, quality blankets on your bed? To stay warm while you sleep (but keep your heat down to save money), make sure your bedding is up to scratch. Head to the back of the linen cupboard and grab out the winter bedding, even if you don’t need it all straight away. Swapping over to a thicker duvet might be a good place to start.
Make your curtains work harder
When that gorgeous Winter sun is out, keep those curtains open so warmth can fill your home, but as soon as the sun goes down, close them right up to add an extra layer of insulation.
Use draft stoppers
Remember how we discussed the small crack in your window… your doors are the same. Don’t let the cold air creep through the crack under your door like a stranger in the night. To simply seal off the chilly breeze, invest in some door stoppers. The best part? You can DIY your own with your extra isolation time. They can be used all year round as well when it comes Summertime and you need to help keep the air con in!
Rugs are your best friends
Did you know that heat can escape through floorboards? A great way to prevent this is to use rugs made of fabric that offer insulation, like wool, to help retain the heat inside. Plus, rugs feel nice and cosy on your feet – plus can really bring the whole areas aesthetic together.
Not in use, close it up
Closing off rooms you don’t use, for example your guest bedroom, when you don’t have any guests over. Close any vents and the main door and that is one less room you are spending money trying to keep warm.