There are other ways to keep your house warm on a winter's day without cranking up the thermostat and having to pay for it when the bill comes. Every home is unique because of the size, landscaping and kind of heating system you have. You can try some of these tips and help keep down your costs and stay warm this winter.

Tip#1. Always take advantage of natural sunlight. If it is bitter cold outside with no wind, open curtains and blinds to take advantage of the heating from the sun. The sun isn't as strong in the winter, but it can still provide some heating.

Tip#2. Check for drafts around doors and windows. Using draft guards and sealing windows with plastic can reduce drafts and keep warm air from escaping your home.

Tip#3. Use an automatic thermostat to regulate what your heat is on. If someone is home all day, try to keep the thermostat at the same temperature. Turning the thermostat down a few degrees at night is healthier for sleeping. An automatic thermostat can be set to come on in the morning if desired.

Tip#4. Cover bare floors with throw rugs or area rugs. Even if you only use them for the winter months, it can make a difference in warming a room.

Tip#5. Change your curtains and window coverings to a heavier fabric for the winter months. This will help even if you have newer windows that are not drafty. You can open them to take advantage of natural warmth from the sunlight but on cold, blustery days they really help in keeping the room warmer.

Tip#6. If you have more than one entrance to your home, designating one to use exclusively during the winter is a smart idea. This can help in keeping other areas of the home warm. A front door that opens up to your main living area can make a comfortably warm room cold. Entering into a garage or kitchen is a better choice. It depends on the design of your house. Many homes do not have a foyer or mud room to enter into from the cold outdoors. Picking an entrance with room to remove winter clothing is another plus.

Tip#7. If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, use it! It can really make a room toasty warm. Just follow all safety rules and make sure children are not left unattended while a fire is burning.

Tip#8. Change your bedding to winter bedding. Even if you replace your sheets with flannel sheets it will make a difference with staying warmer during the night. You will not mind lowering your thermostat if your bed is cozy warm.

Tip#9. Replace installation in your attic or crawl space. This needs to be done in older homes that have not been updated.

Tip#10. Because it is winter and you may not be getting outdoor exercise as much, consider adding aerobics to your daily routine. It is healthy and will keep your blood flowing and take away any winter chill.

Keeping the temperature set to a comfortable setting and dressing accordingly can help to keep down costs while keeping everyone warm. Use throws while watching television and encourage your family to wear slippers in the house to help keep warm. Your home can be comfortable and warm on a winter's day if you follow these tips.

Learn more about this author, Priscilla Benfield.
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