7 tips to keep you warm economically!

If your area, is anything like here in Chicago... the weather has been cold (and perhaps snowy)... and with high fuel prices, and high expenses in general... here are some tips to keep you economically warm during the cold weather.

1. If you can, open your drapes and curtains facing south during the day.  this will allow natural sunlight to come in, and assist in heating your home.  In the evenings, when the sun has gone down... close any drapes and curtains to keep the warmth inside.

2. If you have drafty windows, cover them with that plastic stuff you can get from your local hardware store... I believe 3M makes it, it forms a tight seal over your windows when you blow it with a hair dryer, and basically disappears from view.  Very nice.

3. Lower your thermostat to save money.  When you're home, keep your thermostat as low as you're "comfortable".  This does NOT mean to lower your thermostat so that you're shivering.  But you don't need to create a sauna either.  There's nothing wrong with wearing a sweater at home.

4. Adjust the vents in each room properly.  Make sure you open the vents near the window (that will warm air at the coldest points).

5. Find and seal air leaks in the rooms.  Outlets are notorious for air leaks.... utility cut-throughs for water and gas pipes (like under cabinets) can lighting in ceilings, and any unfinished spaces under cupboards and cabinetry.  That foam insulation can be used in small spaces, and larger spaces should be filled with appropriate insulation.

6. Keep your fireplace damper closed, when the fireplace is not in use.  If you have a glass front on the fireplace, close that too.  If possible, if you light a fire in the fireplace, try to close the door to the room with the fireplace.  This will prevent the fireplace from "drafting" all the warm air out of the house and sending it up the chimney.

7. Turn down the thermostat on your water heater to "warm"... 120°F.  It will still provide a nice hot shower and provide hot water for the dishwasher & washing machine, but without spending extra to heat water hotter than necessary.

Let's stay warm out there.... we've got a ways to go before spring!