Tips for keeping your home warm on a budget this winter

As winter temperatures drop across the country, homeowners are looking for effective ways to keep their homes warm without breaking the bank. The rise in cold weather-related deaths, as reported by a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Foundation, underscores the importance of staying warm during increasingly severe winters influenced by climate change.

Experts suggest several strategies to enhance home warmth. Robert Hamerly, CEO and founder of GreenSavers, emphasizes utilizing existing resources: "This can look like making sure your ceiling fans are reversed to circulate warm air and adding rugs and drapes to bare floors and windows." He also advises sealing leaks with weatherstripping or rolled-up towels.

Rearranging furniture is another simple adjustment. Richie Drew from One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning recommends moving furniture away from exterior walls to maintain warmth and create a cozy environment.

The Department of Energy advises keeping thermostats between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during winter days while lowering them at night or when away. Addressing gaps around windows and doors is crucial, according to Geno Caccia, CEO of Caccia Plumbing: "Weatherstripping or caulking small gaps can make a noticeable difference."

Christine Ciavardini from MD Energy Advisors highlights maintaining heating systems for efficiency. She suggests reducing water heater temperatures to save on gas costs. New York City interior designer Isfira Jensen adds that bleeding radiators can improve performance significantly.

For those with older homes, Simon Bernath of FurnacePrices.ca recommends DIY window kits as an affordable way to reduce drafts.

Looking ahead, Robert Hamerly encourages planning for next winter by investing in high-efficiency heat pumps paired with upgraded insulation for long-term savings.