With the cost of living on the rise and the weather still a bit chilly despite the fact that we’re now in spring, it’s important to find ways to stay warm and save money on heating bills. Luckily, there are plenty of simple and cost-effective ways to keep your home cozy without breaking the bank, and by reducing your fuel cost you can also do your bit to help the environment too.
So it truly is a win-win situation, here’s how you can go about it.
The Cost of Living Crisis
First off, let’s address the cost of living crisis. With inflation and rising costs of essentials like food and energy, it can be tough to make ends meet even if you earn a decent wage. If you were already struggling beforehand then chances are it’s all incredibly overwhelming right now.
While we can’t control everything that impacts our bank accounts, we can take steps to save money where we can. One way to do that is by cutting back on heating costs. By implementing some of the tips below, you can make a real difference in your energy bills – and in the coziness of your home!
Seal Up Drafts
One of the easiest ways to stay cozy at home is by sealing up drafts. Drafty windows and doors can let in cold air, making your home feel chilly and forcing your heating system to work harder than it needs to.
To combat this, take some time to seal up any drafts you find. This could mean using weatherstripping, caulking, or even a good old-fashioned draft stopper. Not only will this help keep your home warm and toasty, but it will also save you money on heating bills in the long run.
Layer Up
Another way to stay cozy and save money on heating bills is simply by layering up. Instead of cranking up the heat, try adding an extra layer or two of clothing. Fleece-lined leggings, cozy sweaters, and fluffy socks can all help keep you warm and snug.
And if you’re still feeling a bit chilly, dressing downs, wearable blankets like the Oodie and regular old blankets to pop over you on the sofa can all make a huge difference. If you have leather sofas that feel cold, consider putting a thin blanket over them to improve the cozy factor, then put another blanket over your lap.
Use Space Heaters
If you’re only using a few rooms in your home, consider using space heaters instead of heating the entire house. This can save you a lot of money on heating bills, especially if you’re only in one or two rooms for most of the day.
Just make sure to use the space heaters safely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions as there are some fire hazards involved.
Add Electric Blankets
Instead of heating your whole home, an electric blanket, an electric warmed dressing gown or a foot warmer to prevent cold feet can all keep you at a comfortable temperature without turning up the thermostat.
Foot warmers especially can be great as they’re smaller than a full electric blanket and you will find that as long as your feet are warm, the rest of you feels a much better temperature too. Do some research into foot warmers that work and consider adding one to your bed.
Utilize Curtains
Another way to keep your home cozy and save money on heating bills is by utilizing your curtains. Keep them closed at night to prevent heat from escaping, and open them during the day to let in natural sunlight and warmth. You can even invest in thermal curtains, which are designed to keep heat in and cold air out.
Plus, curtains can add a cozy and stylish touch to any room. Buying new, lined curtains can be an expense but are one thing that can be worth the investment, especially if you’re not in a position to be able to update your actual windows.
Invest in Rugs
If you have hardwood or tile floors, you might notice that they feel especially chilly during the colder months. To combat this, invest in some cozy rugs. Not only will they add a warm and comfortable touch to your home, but they’ll also help insulate your floors and keep your feet warm. Plus, they’re a great way to add a pop of color and personality to any room.
You could also consider making the change to carpets, again this will be a cost upfront but can make things better in the long run as it will make your home feel less cold and can be much more pleasant underfoot especially if you’ve already had to crank down the thermostat a few degrees.
How have you improved your home to make it feel warmer?
Also read: Know All About The Methods That Are Used To Inspect A Home HVAC System