When the winter season comes around, it can be very uncomfortable for those who live in houses or apartments that do not have effective heating systems. However, there are ways to make your home feel warm and comfortable without spending a lot of money and effort. In this case, some methods may prove useful and will help to make your house warmer and more comfortable during the winter months.
Close the Cracks
Most people do not know, or rather forget, that drafts contribute to a huge percentage of heat loss. To stop the cold wind from coming inside the house, block all spaces and crevices that are prone to the entrance of cold air, such as window sills and even electrical outlets. Seek professional assistance and request the aid of either weatherstripping or caulk. You could also opt to have an external storm door or another door cover to further insulate.
You can easily check for drafts by carrying out a simple test with a candle. Light a candle and hold it near all the windows, doors, or even the walls to determine if there are any drafts. If the flame moves or shakes in any way, a draft exists in that area.
Insulate Your House
There is no denying that insulation is key to making a warm, energy-efficient home. If it’s been found that your home’s insulation is deficient, then it is best to improve it. Insulation keeps the warm air inside the house to avoid excessive use of the heaters. If you are searching for insulation materials, you may consider Knauf insulation, made from great Class A materials and provides one of the best heating insulation solutions.
Due to the ease of installation, fire resistance, and soundproofing, Knauf insulation is a favorite material for homeowners and constructors. It is applicable in different parts of the house, such as attics, walls, and floors.
Utilize Solar Energy
When the sun is up during the day, you can allow it to warm the indoor environment by simply opening curtains and blinds. Sunlight can add a lot of warmth to the indoor living environment. But please remember to close them at night to avoid such warmth escaping from the house. If you have windows on the south side of your home that receive direct sunlight, you can benefit from fitting solar shades or sun-blocking blinds to help reduce the amount of direct sun coming into your home.
While windows and skylights can create unwanted glare and heat gain in summer, solar shades or other special removable shades will allow a portion of that sunlight during winter months.
Help Create an Indoor Comfort Zone
Apart from using insulation boards and ensuring that there are no drafts, it is still possible to use warm decorations in rooms. Try to incorporate decorative items even into major areas of the house, such as area carpets, throw pillows, and decorative blankets. Lighting is another thing that can be used effectively to create a certain ambiance. For instance, it would be better to use bulbs that emit a yellowish color rather than whitish light.
If you want a warm and homely feel in the room, a fireplace or wood burner can be added. Having a pleasant glow and noise will act as a warm comfort. Otherwise, electric heaters or lighted candles can also do that job well where there is no fireplace.
Optimize the Use of Portable Heaters
Space heaters can be efficient for heating single areas inside a house. However, safety and efficiency should always be a priority when using space heaters. All space heaters must be placed on a firm surface and positioned away from anything that may catch fire. Programmable thermostats can be used where different temperatures are required in different rooms to prevent overheating.
When using space heaters, following precautions and safety measures is critical. Never leave space heaters unattended when in use; they should only be plugged into a grounded outlet. Consider space heaters with safety features such as an automatic shut-off if children or pets are present.
Following the advice given, the winter months should not only be warmer but also feel more comfortable. It is important to note that a house with insulation and no drafts will not only keep its occupants warm inside but also ensure there is less cost when heating the house.
