No one should choose between staying warm and saving money on energy bills. Our 13 time-tested tips, drawn from years of energy efficiency advice, show you how.
Turning up the heat to sweltering levels feels tempting in cold weather, but it drives up costs fast. With smart strategies, you can stay cozy without the shock at month's end.
Luckily, these proven methods keep you warm even on the chilliest days—and protect your budget.
Ditch the bulky sweater. Opt for multiple thin layers instead—the air trapped between them insulates and warms your body efficiently.
Avoid switching on the heat right when you wake up; by the time it warms up, you might already be out the door, wasting energy.
Program your thermostat to start 30 minutes before you rise, or skip it altogether if possible.
A thick duvet traps heat best—and it's not just for bed. Bring it to the living room sofa for instant warmth.
If home feels too chilly, head out. Libraries, cafes, or bars often have reliable heating—just watch your spending.
Tea, coffee, or even mulled wine warms you from within. You'll feel the cozy effect right away.
As your mom always said, open doors let heat escape. Keep them shut to make all these tips effective.
Inspect doors and windows for drafts. Heavy curtains help, but for gaps under doors, use weatherstripping or a rolled towel.
An oven generates real heat while cooking. Sit nearby, or safely crack the door after baking to warm the kitchen.
A jog outside or home workouts like yoga or cleaning generate body heat fast—perfect after holiday indulgences.
This classic works wonders at the foot of your bed. Skip pricier electric blankets for reliable, low-cost warmth.
Hot water warms your body and steams up the bathroom, raising the room's temperature too.
Candles provide surprising radiant heat—but supervise them closely to avoid fire risks. Pro tip: Freeze them beforehand for twice the burn time.
If your radiator's top is cooler than the bottom, air is trapped, blocking circulation. Turn it off, open the bleed valve (opposite the control), and listen for hissing water. Close when water flows; use a towel as it may be hot.
Properly bled radiators heat efficiently, slashing your energy use significantly.
