How to keep warm and comfy this winter

When the weather turns cold, keeping everyone warm and comfy becomes a priority. There are a lot of things you can do to ensure your family stays toasty warm and happy throughout the cold winter months, without breaking the bank to do so.

Here are a few tips on just what you can do.

Open the Curtains

During the day, when the sun is bright, open the curtains and let that sun shine in. Not only will it illuminate the space, but it will also warm it up. Let the sun do the work of warming the home without costing you a cent.

Close Those Curtains

Opening the curtains during the day will help keep it warm inside, but if you leave them open all night, you’re likely to find it colder inside than you’d like. Close the curtains at sunset to retain the heat you got during the day.

Get Your HVAC System Checked out and Maintained

Your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system needs regular maintenance and cleaning to run efficiently. Getting it checked once or twice a year ensures that everything is in good shape is a good idea. Some companies, such as Derek Sawyers Heating & Air Conditioning, know that this will keep it running to the best of its ability so that it will keep your home cozy warm all winter long. If anything isn’t running well, getting it repaired will not only keep you warmer but also save you money on your utility bills.

Reverse the Ceiling Fans

The same fan that helps keep you cool in the summer can keep you warm in the winter. There’s a switch on most fans that reverses the direction of the spinning. Heat rises, and by reversing the fan so it runs clockwise, you’ll push the heat back down into the room, which means the heater or furnace won’t have to run as much.

Use Area Rugs

Area rugs work great as a form of insulation, trapping cool air and keeping it from rising and cooling the rest of the room. They also add a nice design element, allowing you to combine function with beauty.

Staying toasty warm isn’t that difficult, if you just get creative about it. You can also remind family to add or remove layers of clothing to create their own desired level of warmth if they’re unhappy about the temperature. Add throw blankets that can be used, and you’ll have a home that is warm and beautiful.

a little bit about our Guest poster:

Rachelle Wilber
Bio: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym.