Kelly's Healthy Home

Last week was 25 degrees in Philadelphia. And it wasn’t event December yet! BRRRRR! So I thought it would be appropriate to share some ways to keep your home cozy, yet not drain your bank account over the next few months.

First, I want to point out that you can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day. A great way to effectively achieve this is by using a programmable thermostat. The Department of Energy says you can save energy costs in the winter by setting your thermostat(link is external) between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit while you’re home—and even less when you’re away and asleep! I tend to keep ours between 65-66°. We have radiator heat, which I feel keeps the home a little more comfortable. Or maybe I’m just extra cheap. You can decide 🙂

Note: Heat pumps run a little differently though, talk with your service company to learn the best way to efficiently run in the winter. some companies have begun selling specially designed programmable thermostats for heat pumps, which make setting back the thermostat cost-effective.

During the day, when we are away at school and work, I turn the heat down and use the sun to heat the rooms. Of course this only works on sunny days, but it’s effective and my dogs love laying in the sun spots. So open those blinds and drapes for a few hours to warm your home naturally. The sun also works as my light when I work at home, so I’m using less electricity while the sun is shining indoors. Remember, once the sun starts to go down, close those blinds and drapes to keep the warmth in as well.

While the sun is shining through your windows and doors, if you’re seeing sunlight seep through the cracks, let’s get those sealed up! Here are some more tips to keep the warm air indoors:

• If you have older windows, look into window insulation kits. Here are some suggestions: https://www.bhg.com/best-window-insulator-kits-6829822
• Keep fireplace dampers closed when not using the fireplace.
• Make sure to caulk around windows and use weather stripping around the doors to keep that warm air inside.
• Check your attic for adequate insulation, but also for any leaks.

With all of the extra costs during the holiday’s, do what you can to keep your utility bills low. It will be well worth it to enjoy more family time inside watching movies, baking sweets, playing games and laughing, comfortably.