Living room with fireplace on and hot chocolate on table in middle

Ways to Keep Warm This Winter and Stay Warm Without Breaking the Bank

When the temperatures begin to drop outside, a homeowner’s first instinct is to turn on their heater. And while this is usually the best way to stay warm and comfortable, it can also increase an energy bill to new heights. However, there are a few simple solutions to staying nice and toasty for a fraction of the cost. Here’s how:

Smart Ways to Stay Warm Without Overusing Your Heating System

Open the Blinds to Let Warm Air In

Believe it or not, one of the best ways to warm up your home is to open your window treatments during the day! Especially if the windows are facing towards the direction of the sun’s rays, you’ll be able to reap the benefits of “free” warmth.

Think of it as a greenhouse: When sunshine pools into your home through each pane of glass, it will help increase the temperature. And, don’t underestimate the psychological benefits: A sunny room makes for a sunny mood.

Wear Layers to Keep You Warm Without Cranking the Thermostat

Do you have a favorite sweater, hoodie, pair of fuzzy socks, or all of the above? If so, now is the perfect time to bring them out of hibernation! While it might feel unnecessary to bundle up indoors, it’s an essential part of the equation.

By wearing layers, you’ll help your body maintain a consistent temperature, which will help keep you warm — even when your home feels like the inside of an igloo.

Turn on Your Ceiling Fan to Circulate Warm Air Efficiently

While this might seem like it defeats the purpose of keeping your home warm, a ceiling fan is much more helpful than you think! Typically during the summertime, this fixture will spin in a counterclockwise direction drawing warm air up to help cool your home. In the wintertime, you’ll want to switch to a clockwise motion.

When the heat is on, the fan (set on low) will help push warm air down, keeping a room as toasty as can be — all without adjusting your thermostat, keeping your energy usage to a minimum.

Speaking of Ceiling Fans, If You Need One Installed, We Can Help!

At Summer Rain, we offer ceiling fan installations, as well as a variety of other helpful electrical services. We happily serve our local community in Greenwich, CT, as well as our neighboring towns. Give us a call today at 203-629-8050 or visit us on the web to learn more about our services.

 

FAQ About How to Stay Warm on a Budget

What is the cheapest way to stay warm?

The cheapest way to stay warm is by layering clothing, using blankets, and sealing drafts around windows and doors. Maximizing natural heat from south-facing windows and using a ceiling fan to circulate warm air can also help keep your home warm without increasing heating costs.

How can I stay warm when I can’t afford heat?

If you can’t afford to turn on your heating system, focus on insulation and trapping heat. Wear warm clothes, block cold air with draft stoppers, use thick curtains, and insulate windows with plastic film. A space heater can be a cost-effective way to heat a small area instead of your entire home.

How do Amish people stay warm in the winter?

Amish people stay warm in the winter by using wood stoves, wearing layered clothing, and insulating their homes with thick walls and curtains. They also utilize passive solar heating by maximizing sunlight through windows during the day and closing curtains at night to retain heat.

How do Japanese stay warm in winter?

In Japan, people stay warm in the winter by using kotatsu (heated tables with blankets), electric blankets, space heaters, and warm clothes indoors. Many homes also rely on insulation and heavy curtains to prevent heat loss.

How to make a room warm without a heater?

To keep a room warm without a heater, use thick rugs to insulate floors, close curtains at night, block drafts, and use candles or a hot water bottle for extra warmth. Let the sunlight in during the day and close doors to trap heat in the room.

What is the cheapest heat option?

The cheapest heating options include using an electric blanket, a space heater for small rooms, or a programmable thermostat to optimize your furnace’s efficiency. Sealing cracks and insulating your home properly can also reduce heating costs.

How can I heat my house for free?

You can heat your house for free by using solar heat—opening south-facing windows during the day and closing them at night to retain warmth. Insulating your home properly and using draft stoppers to prevent heat loss can also make a big difference.

Can a candle heat a room?

A candle can provide minimal heat, but it is not an efficient way to warm a room. However, placing multiple candles in a well-insulated space can contribute to warmth, especially when used in combination with other heat retention methods.

How to stay warm in a cold house without heat?

To stay warm in a cold house without heat, wear thick socks and slippers, layer clothing, and use blankets. Close off unused rooms, block drafts with weatherstripping, and use rugs to prevent heat loss through floors. Moving around and staying active can also help keep your body warm.