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There are multiple ways to make your home more comfortable this winter—and you may not have to spend much money to do it! Below, we'll share some tips to help you keep your home warm and cozy all season long. So whether you're dealing with cold weather for the first time or looking for ways to save on your energy bills, read on for some helpful advice!
Seal air leaks around doors and windows
Most homes have air leaks around doorframes and window frames. These leaks allow heat to escape from your home in the winter and come in from outdoors in the summer, making your home less comfortable and driving up your energy bills. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to seal these leaks and improve your home's efficiency.
Start by caulking the gaps around windows and doors. You can also add weatherstripping to doors and windows that open and close. Finally, make sure you have a good seal on your chimney flue.
Add insulation to your attic and basement to keep the heat from escaping
Attic and basement spaces are often some of the draftiest areas in a house, making it difficult to keep the interior temperature consistent. One way to combat this issue is to add insulation to these spaces. Insulation will help keep the heat from moving where you don’t want it to — this, in turn, will make it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature inside.
There are a variety of insulation materials available, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for the space you're working with. Once you've added insulation, take some time to seal any gaps or cracks that may be present. This will further prevent heat from escaping and help you to keep your home well-insulated against the cold weather.
Hang thermal curtains on your windows to prevent cold air from entering
If you feel drafts coming through your windows, or if your window panes don’t keep heat in, it might be time to invest in some thermal curtains. Thermal curtains are made of heavy fabric that helps to block out cold air and keep warm air inside. They can cost a bit more than regular curtains, but they're well worth the investment if you live in a cold climate.
Hang them on all of your windows, and you'll immediately notice a difference in the temperature of your home. You'll be able to turn down the thermostat and save money on your energy bills. Plus, you'll stay nice and cozy all winter long.
Install a draft stopper or a top-sealing damper in your chimney
You close the doors to all the rooms in your house, but heat is still escaping up the chimney. You can feel a draft every time you stand next to the fireplace. What can you do? Install a draft stopper or a top-sealing damper in your chimney.
A draft stopper is a device that fits over the flue opening and blocks the flow of air. A top-sealing damper is a flap that seals the opening at the top of the chimney when it's not in use. If your fireplace is used frequently, a top-sealing damper is a good choice because it's easy to open and close. But if you only use your fireplace occasionally, a draft stopper is a better option because it's less likely to get damaged when it's not in use. Either way, you'll be able to enjoy your fireplace without feeling the drafts!
Install zoning in your HVAC system
Delivering the right amount of heating and cooling to each room in your home can be a challenge, especially if you have an older HVAC system. One way to ensure that each room is comfortable is to install zoning in your HVAC system.
Zoning involves dividing your home into separate areas, usually with a system of dampers in the ductwork. This allows you to customize the temperature in each zone to ensure maximum comfort. In addition, zoning can also save you money by allowing you to target heating and cooling only to the areas that need it. So if you're looking for a way to improve your HVAC system's efficiency, consider installing zoning. It could make a big difference in both your comfort and your wallet.
Ready for a warmer winter?
By following these tips, you can make your home much cozier this winter and save money on future energy bills. And if you need any help with heating or chimney services, our team at Heatspan is here for you. Give us a call today and let us help you stay warm all winter long: (718) 375-3320.