It’s almost winter already, the season of all things miserable and cold. But don’t get defeated. Here are some ideas to get cosier and warmer while keeping control of your electricity bill. Make sure you get ready!
1# Throw down a rug
It helps a lot to insulate the floor and it will to keep your feet from freezing
2# Install drapes to your windows
Tight-fitting drapes will help you insulate your home. It works with shades too! Try to find thermal “energy saving” curtains at your local home-ware store; their effect is even better.
3# Quick test for your doors/windows insulation
Place your hand against your external doors from the inside: If it feels colder than the inside walls, it might be time to install a better insulated door. You can run the same test for windows!
4# Use weather-stripes
Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around drafty doors and windows.
5# Keep winter out with a DIY door draft stopper
Block the cool air coming from outside or from your basement while adding a special cosy touch to your home
6# Let your house take some sun
Don’t waste these sunny days and bask in the ‘free’ heat. Let the light go through your north-facing windows during day time but remember to close your curtains when the sun sets.
7# Do you use your fireplace? Optimise it
Split wood into pieces that are 10-15cm in diameter. The wood will burn more cleanly with more surface area exposed to the flames.
8# You don’t use your fireplace? Make sure to seal your chimney
Heated air goes up, remember? Don’t loose it because of your unused chimney! Make sure that your damper is closed when the fireplace is not in use or consider sealing your chimney if you never use it.
9# Keep it simple with warm clothes inside and low heating
Put on a sweater and lower your heater. We don’t need to live in a 22°C home environment all year round and sometimes, the simplest measures are the most efficient.
(Picture: Knysna at night)