There is nothing like coming into a toasty house after being in the winter cold. However, keeping your home heated can make an impact on next month’s energy bill. To stay warm safely and efficiently this season, HomeFirst® is sharing these home hacks just for you.

1. For Your Windows

Windows can make up 30% of your home’s energy use, so they can really help you save heat and costs. Use them to your advantage with these suggestions:

Also, if you have older windows, consider upgrading them to ones with higher energy efficiency ratings.

2. For Your Doors

Don’t let your doors welcome in the cold. Close doors to rooms not in use but, if possible, keep your bathroom door open when taking a shower to benefit from the warm steam. To keep the chill from creeping under doors, you can also use a draft blocker at the bottom. There are several material options like fabric, foam or vinyl that you can purchase, or you can make your own draft blocker.

3. For the Floors

Many people love the look of wood floors, but they can be really cold to walk on in the winter. Keep your toes warm and add insulation to your home by putting some rugs down. The rugs will act as a barrier to prevent heat from getting out. You can also add gap filler between the floorboards to seal against heat loss even more. Talk to a flooring professional about options.

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4. For Fans and the HVAC System

First, turn on the ceiling fan. But wait, you’re probably thinking, doesn’t that make it cooler? Well, if you reverse the switch on your fan to move clockwise, you can actually help heat your home. The direction will pull the warm air that rises to the ceiling back down.

Second, replace and clean your air filters regularly to make sure the heat isn’t being blocked. We also recommend keeping your vents clear. Move furniture around so that nothing is covering them and preventing heat from circulating in the room. A smart thermostat can also help heat your home more efficiently, depending on the type of heating and cooling system you have. With a smart thermostat, you can program it based on your schedule, or it can sense when to adjust your home’s temperature throughout the day.

5. For the Water Heater and Pipes

One of the best ways to save heat is to insulate your water heater and pipes. Wrapping your water heater in an insulation jacket or blanket that is appropriate for the type of water heater could help you keep all that heat from escaping. This could be especially helpful for older water heaters that aren’t as insulated as more modern ones. The same goes for your water pipes. Insulating can reduce heat loss as water moves through the pipes. Consult a plumbing professional for the best insulation installment for your home’s specific needs. Insulation may also help prevent your pipes from freezing. Another tip for saving hot water in the winter is washing your laundry in cold water when possible. As an extra benefit, washing in cold water can help clothes last longer.

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6. For Your Bed

Keep cozy while you sleep without cranking up the heat too high by wearing warm pajamas and using flannel bedsheets in the winter. Also, pile on extra blankets or use thicker blankets on top of your bed. And don’t forget about keeping your feet warm by wearing socks and placing a hot water bottle at the foot of your bed.

Use these tips to help fight the winter blues and heating costs. And now that you’re staying warm, make sure your home is ready for the cold season with more of our helpful home guides.

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