Reduce Heating Cost – Stay Warm Without Turning Up The Heat

One of my favorite things about fall and spring is that there are a few weeks in both those seasons that we don’t have to run either the heat or the air conditioning. I try to stretch that time as far as possible. Today I thought I’d share a few tips with you on staying warm without having to turn on the heat.

This will also help during the winter months by allowing you to turn down the thermostat by a few degrees. Give it a try. You’ll be surprised how much of a difference it makes on your heating costs over time.

Let the Sun Warm The House

Don’t waste energy, when you can take advantage of the sun. Open the window shades wherever the sun is hitting the house. Allow the warmth to circulate through the whole building. We rotate our fan blades during the colder months and turn them on to circulate the warmth through the entire house.

Make sure you close the shades as soon as it gets dark to prevent heat from escaping as quickly.

Dress In Layers

Instead of turning on the heat (or turning it up a degree or two), grab a cardigan or sweater to put on. It won’t cost you any more and it’s much easier to take a cardigan off when you get too warm than it is to adjust the temperature.

Don’t Forget Warm Socks And Put On A Hat

If you’re still a bit chilly, try putting on some warm socks or even a hat. It’s amazing how much body heat we lose through our head. A warm hat makes a big difference.

Sip A Warm Drink

Let’s not forget about warming up from the inside. Grab a cup of coffee, tea or even some chicken broth. What works well when you come inside from a day playing in the snow also works wonders to keep you warm the rest of the week.

Stay Active

Get up and do some housework. Or turn on some music and dance around the living room. Get the blood pumping and your body temperature up a bit. You don’t have to break a sweat… just a little bit of moving around will instantly make you warmer. As an added benefit it’s good for you and burns a few extra calories.

Get Out The Blankets

Many of us struggle most with getting cold during the hours right before bed. You’re tired and just want to sit on the couch, watch some TV or read. When it’s time to relax, grab a couple of blankets and snuggle up. Not only does it help you stay warm, it’s just plain cozy. And as an added benefit your house will still be a little cool at bedtime which has been shown to help with sleep.

Bake At Night

Before you settle in on the couch, get your baking done late in the afternoon or early evening. This is when I bake my bread, muffins, cookies, brownies and the likes. The oven warms up the house while things beak and for an hour or so after.

Light Some Candles

I also like to light a couple of candles. They may not do a lot to raise the temperature in the room, but having that warm, flickering light always makes me feel warmer.

What do you do to stay warm on cooler days?