Keeping your home warm does not have to be difficult or costly. It only takes a little layering, sunlight, and insulation.
You’re in luck if you’re looking for ways to stay warm without using a heater this winter. There are numerous simple and low-cost ways to keep your home warm and comfortable during the winter months.
Here are ten simple ways to heat your home without using a heater.
1. Light your fireplace.
A fireplace is an excellent way to generate heat without using a heater. Simply maintain your fireplace and have it inspected by a professional to ensure that it is in good working order.
Take note, however, if you have a wood-burning fireplace. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), wood-burning fireplaces manufactured before 1990 (as well as those without glass doors) are inefficient at warming a home.
If you have extra money, you should consider upgrading your wood fireplace to an electric model, which generates heat much more efficiently.
2. Add Extra Insulation Layers
Adding additional layers of insulation is one of the simplest and least expensive ways to keep your home warm. Heat is prevented from escaping through walls, windows, and doors by insulation.
Spray foam insulation is an excellent choice for small spaces with difficult-to-access areas, such as gaps between door and window frames.
Most hardware stores also sell window insulation kits, which are usually less expensive than professional installations. These kits require you to wrap plastic wrap around the inside of your windows to add an extra layer of insulation against cold air.
3. Weatherstrip and caulk your windows and doors
Caulk and weatherstrip your windows and doors to reduce heating costs and keep your home warm without turning on a heater. This helps to keep draughts at bay.
4. Hang Insulated Curtains
Insulated curtains are an excellent way to keep heat in your home, particularly at night. Thick, insulated curtains can keep cold draughts out while still allowing light in.
Insulated curtains are available at Amazon and most home improvement stores. If money is tight, consider visiting a Goodwill or thrift store.
If you don’t have curtain rods, don’t worry about spending money on them. Hanging your curtains with command hooks or Velcro strips is a low-cost way to keep your home warm without using a heater.
5. Arrange Rugs and Blankets
Rugs are excellent for keeping warm air inside your home because they act as insulation for hardwood and tile floors, which do not retain much heat on their own. Invest in a few thick rugs for added comfort, especially if you like to walk barefoot.
Blankets are also useful at this time of year. They can be hung over doorways or used as makeshift curtains on windowsills where cold air can enter through gaps in walls, ceilings, and windowsill edges.
Electric heating pads are another option for providing additional warmth on cold winter nights. To keep your feet warm, place them beneath blankets or at the end of your bed.
6. Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans
Ceiling fans can aid in the circulation of air in your home. They can also be used to push warm air down, according to ENERGY STAR. To accomplish this, reverse the direction of your fan so that it moves clockwise.
7. Make use of sunlight
Utilize free heat by opening curtains on sunny days and allowing natural sunlight to warm your home during the day.
Close all curtains and blinds in the evenings to prevent heat from escaping through your windows.
8. Shut Off Vents in Unused Rooms
Closing vents in unused rooms will conserve heat, allowing you to save money on energy costs in the long run.
To prevent air from escaping, use plastic covers on vents.
9. Purchase a Space Heater
If everything else fails, space heaters are an excellent way to heat specific areas of your home without turning up the thermostat. They’re ideal for small spaces where you spend a lot of time, such as your bedroom or living room.
Simply read and follow all of the safety instructions that come with your space heater. This includes not leaving them running unattended and keeping them away from flammable materials like drapes or furniture.
10. Drink Hot Beverages
On cold winter days, drink a hot cup of tea or cocoa to warm your body from the inside out. It’s also a delicious and comforting treat, which is an added bonus.