Whether you want to ease your impact on the environment or just wish to save a few bucks, reducing your energy use can get you there. Among the most expensive components of your utility bill are your heating and cooling costs, especially if you’re in regions with extreme temperature shifts. Luckily, there are some new, innovative and tried-and-tested ways to tame your energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.
1. Install Quilted Curtains To Block Drafts
To increase your comfort and keep the temperature down, consider quilted curtains instead of turning up the heat in the house to compensate for exposed windows. Curtains are also easy to install and are available in various colours, patterns and sizes.
2. Bundle Up With Warm Accessories
This is probably the easiest way to save on your heating bill. Put on a cozy winter sweater and warm socks instead of turning up the heat. You can also keep throw blankets on the couch or add an area rug for floor insulation.
3. Get A Humidifier To Add Moisture To The Air
Since moist air feels warmer and holds heat better, getting a humidifier can help you feel comfortable when your thermostat is set at a lower temperature. A collection of house plants can also increase the humidity in your home.
4. Turn Down The Heat And Still Be Comfortable
Turning down the thermostat during winter can help you save money. But if you don’t want to wear extra clothes to stay warm, then a space heater may be for you. Though fireplaces and fireplace inserts can provide space heating, electric heaters are the easiest way to warm up a room. A towel warmer can act as a small space heater for your bathroom and also provides you with a toasty towel after bathing. Though they may not save energy, towel warmers can keep you warm in the bathroom when the house thermostat is turned down.
5. Keep Your Furnace Clean And Unblocked
Keeping your furnace and vents properly maintained will reduce your energy consumption and help you save money. Regularly check your furnace filter and replace it whenever they get dirty.
6. Only Use Exhaust Fans When Necessary
Exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom pull the hot air that rises to the ceiling out of your apartment. Use these fans sparingly and shut them off when you’re done using them.
7. Invest In Insulation
Don’t waste money because of escaping heat and cold air brought by improper insulation. Get some inexpensive insulation and cover up all those areas where heat might escape. Foam weather stripping for your doors and windows is cheap and extremely easy to apply.
8. Make Your Windows Work For You
Keep the blinds or drapes open on windows with direct sun exposure to let the sunlight heat the room. Close the blinds and drapes to cover the cold glass at night.
