Winter’s on the way, and while you probably know the basics for keeping warm on a budget, there’s always room for fresh ideas. Resources like the Washington Gas Winter Preparedness list are packed with practical advice on preparing your home for the cold. As a seasonal refresher, consider these additional suggestions to help you stay comfortable and energy-efficient while trimming extra costs.
Use a Chimney Balloon
Fireplaces add a special touch to any home, but they can let warm air escape and invite cold drafts in when they’re not in use. Even with the damper closed, a lot of heat can slip away through the chimney. A chimney balloon, or chimney plug, can block that flue and keep the warmth inside. It’s an easy fix that helps your fireplace remain a comforting, energy-saving asset.
Install Radiator Reflectors
Radiators do a great job of heating rooms, but some of that warmth can be lost through the walls, especially if your radiators are near exterior walls. That’s where radiator reflectors come in. These thin, reflective sheets help bounce heat back into the room, making sure you get the most out of your heating system.
Try a Heat Recovery Ventilator
Sealing your home tight to keep the heat in is smart, but it can sometimes lead to stuffy and stale air. A heat recovery ventilator (HRV) is a clever way to bring in fresh air without losing the warmth you’ve worked hard to keep. It captures the heat from outgoing air and uses it to warm up the fresh air coming in, keeping your home comfy and efficient in energy use.
Insulate Your Floors and Ceilings
It’s easy to overlook, but floors can be a major source of heat loss, especially those over unheated spaces like basements or crawl spaces. Adding insulation underneath can help keep the warmth inside. Whether you opt for rigid foam insulation or adding carpets and rugs with insulating pads, your cold feet and energy bill will thank you.
And because heat rises, don’t forget your ceiling or attic when insulating your home. Adding or upgrading the insulation in these areas can keep the warmth inside where it belongs. Consider installing a radiant barrier or boosting the insulation’s R-value to maximize your home’s energy efficiency.
Use a Humidifier
Dry winter air can make your home feel colder than it actually is, tempting you to turn up the heat. A humidifier can help maintain ideal indoor humidity levels—between 30% and 50%—making your home feel warmer at lower temperatures. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid dry skin and annoying winter static shocks.
Add Outlet Gaskets
Electrical outlets on exterior walls can let in more cold air than you might expect. Installing foam outlet gaskets behind the cover plates is a quick, inexpensive fix that helps block drafts and may reduce your heating and cooling bill by up to 20%.
Time Your Water Heater
Your water heater doesn’t need to run constantly; a timer lets you adapt water needs to your schedule. This one small change can help noticeably trim energy costs, especially since water heating is most homes’ third largest energy use, right behind heating and cooling.
Install a Door Sweep
Even a tiny gap under an exterior door can let in a surprising amount of cold air. A door sweep is a simple, affordable solution that seals off the bottom of your doors, keeping drafts out and warmth in. Look for one with a brush or rubber seal that’s easy on your floors. Bonus: they can also help keep out water, dust, and insects.
Consider Adding Thermal Mass
Thermal mass might sound technical, but it’s really just about using materials that store and release heat. Adding elements like stone, tile, or concrete near south-facing windows allows them to soak up heat during the day and slowly release it at night. This natural process may help keep your home’s temperature steady, reducing the need for extra heating.
At Washington Gas, we understand that keeping your home warm isn’t just about comfort—it’s about keeping your energy affordable, reliable, and safe. From innovative programs and partnerships to our 175-year focus on customer care, we’re passionate about reliable energy, no matter what the season.
Stay cozy, and enjoy the cooler months!
