4 No Cost Ways to Cut Heating Bills

When winter hits, the temperatures drop and your heating bill goes up. Tired of grimacing each month as you tear open your heating bill? This year, don’t let the temperature change wreak havoc on your stress levels and wallet. Save money by making small adjustments that can help keep heat from escaping from your home.
Cover Windows

Keep heat from escaping through the cracks in your windows by covering your windows with a clear material such as Frost King®. Garbage bags are another option; however they can eliminate your ability to see outside and are pretty much unsightly. These might be good for windows on the back or side of the house.

Put Up Sheets

Inadequate or damaged doors are major contributors to energy loss within a home, and addressing this issue can significantly enhance energy efficiency. Take proactive steps to prevent heat from escaping through the cracks along the sides and bottom of your doors. A practical solution is to hang sheets strategically in entryways—either in front of the doors or directly on the doors themselves, particularly if certain doors are infrequently used.

If the idea of using sheets doesn’t align with your vision of home decor, consider opting for colorful, floor-length curtains as an appealing alternative. Not only do these curtains serve the functional purpose of minimizing heat loss, but they also introduce a decorative element to your living space, infusing it with vibrant hues and adding a touch of style.

This dual-purpose approach not only helps in improving energy efficiency but also allows you to express your personal aesthetic preferences. By integrating such solutions into your home, you strike a balance between practicality and style, creating an environment that is both visually pleasing and energy-conscious.

Cover Door Bottoms

Heat loss through doors can be a significant source of energy waste. During the winter, cold air can seep in through gaps under doors, making your home feel chilly and driving up your heating bills. To prevent this heat loss, you can use rugs, towels, or door blockers to seal off these gaps and keep the warmth inside.

Here are some tips for blocking drafts from doors:

For unused doors: Place a rug or towel against the bottom of the door to block the gap. This is a simple and inexpensive solution that can be effective in stopping drafts.

For regularly used doors: Use formal, custom door blockers or draft stoppers. These are more durable and aesthetically pleasing than rugs or towels, and they can be a stylish addition to your home décor. Choose door blockers in a color that complements your décor.

For exterior doors: Use a door sweep. A door sweep is a strip of material that is attached to the bottom of the door and sweeps the floor as the door opens and closes. This can help to prevent cold air from seeping in under the door.

By taking these simple steps, you can reduce heat loss through doors and save money on your heating bills.

Check out 10 ways to Reduce Your Home Heating Bill for more tips

Close Doors

Another way to prevent heat from escaping and lower your heating bills is to section off parts of the house that are rarely used. Close all doors, even to rooms used regularly, unless someone is occupying the room. You can always open the door an hour or two before use to warm it up. Be sure to close the vents in each room. Covering the closed vents with a box or ottoman will help redirect heat to other parts of the house.

Turn Down the Heat

Reducing the frequency of your heater usage is a strategic move to curtail the likelihood of heat escaping from your home. In the winter months, consider adopting the comforting practice of becoming a Snuggie™ enthusiast. Enhance your home’s coziness by strategically stocking your storage room benches and living room baskets with an array of blankets. These blankets serve as a practical and inviting alternative to relying on extra heating during the night.

By implementing this thoughtful approach, you not only contribute to energy conservation but also create an environment that encourages relaxation and warmth. The array of blankets strategically placed around your living spaces not only provides physical warmth but also adds a touch of comfort and aesthetic appeal to your home. This dual-purpose strategy not only aligns with sustainable energy practices but also elevates the overall ambiance of your living spaces, making them more inviting and conducive to a snug, winter-ready atmosphere.

4 No Cost Ways to Cut Heating Bills