How To Do Everything

With the way the economy is these days everyone is looking for ways to reduce their bills and put more money in their pockets.  With a few simple tips you can easily begin to save money on heating costs.

1.  Adjust your thermostat gradually: As winter sets in and the weather gradually grows colder, your body can learn to adjust to the cold.  The trick is to set your thermostat gradually lower.  Every couple of days adjust the thermostat cooler and cooler.
2. Wear More Warm Clothing:  If you are going to reduce the room temperature of your home, you will want to gradually add clothing to maintain body temp.  Consider adding thermal (long underwear) underclothing, fuzzy slippers, an extra pair of socks, sweaters, and sweatshirts.
3. If you spend a lot of time with your bare feet touching the floor, consider propping them up on an old pillow.  Just lay the old pillow on the floor and put your feet on top.  This will help keep your feet warm by preventing them contact with the coldest part of your home, the floor.
4. Stuff Your Windows with Socks:  I may be getting some weird looks for this one…but if you have nothing else to use, then use old socks; preferably clean ones.  If you feel cold air coming in around your windows, cut up strips of socks or other material and stuff it into the cracks.  This method is cheaper and cleaner than caulking around your windows.  In the spring when it is time to open the windows again, just remove the socks and either clean them or throw them away.
5. Stop Air Coming in under the Door: Many homes have issues with air coming in under the doors.  You have a few options to stop this.  You can use an old throw rug by rolling it up and pushing it up against the door. You can also make a tube with material and stuff it with old socks and other clothing and place it in front of the door to dodge the draft.
6. Use the Power of the Sun:  On cold days that are still sunny, open your curtains and let the light shine in.  This will provide free passive solar heating.