While it is critical to keep your home well-heated during the winter months in Rhode Island, it is also vital to have an efficient heating system. The more efficient the heating is in your home, the more money you will save on your heating and energy bills. Consider helping the efficiency of your heating system by following the tips below!
- Make sure to cover every window in your home with blinds and curtains. Blinds and curtains act as insulation against the cold weather outside. Also, allow the sun to shine in your windows
during the day so that you don’t have to use the heater as much! To get more sunlight into your home during the winter, consider trimming shrubs and trees and using curtains that are easy
to open and close. - Use a thermostat that is programmable so that you don’t have to remember to turn it down when everyone sleeps. If you aren’t at home, or your whole household is asleep, turn your thermostat down five to 10 degrees. Programming your thermostat can help you save a lot of money on your heating bills.
- Keep plush blankets, slippers, and sweaters around your home during the winter. Keeping these items handy will deter your family members from turning up the heat when it is a little chilly.
- If you have colder spaces that aren’t regularly accessed by your household, consider using a space heater. Basements are a great example of a colder area that is well-heated by using a small electric heater.
- Increasing the humidity in your home will help you feel warmer. Getting a humidifier can make you feel warmer so that you don’t have to heat the house as much.
- If you notice drafts coming from doors, windows, attic doors, or outlets, then try using silicone caulking or foam sealant to stop the cold air from blowing into your home.
- Arrange your furniture so that the heat in your home can flow well. Your furniture shouldn’t block the vents for your heating system! You should also check your curtains to make sure they aren’t trapping in the air from the vents because they lay over them.