When the Wisconsin winter chill sets in, most homeowners strive to keep their most-used rooms – bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms – warm and toasty. But neglecting other areas of your home can let cold air in, prevent heat from circulating, and raise your energy bills.
With a few adjustments and a bit of TLC, even the most unlikely areas of your home can help keep your home cozy, no matter the weather.
Here are some areas at home to stay warm this winter to conquer the cold in Wisconsin:
Seal Windows and Doors
Cold drafts are not your friend. While windows and doors offer access to the outside world, they also let the winter chill seep into your home creating uneven heating. Consider using draft blockers – small, fabric-covered tools that slide under your door – to guard against the wind and keep heat inside. Avoid opening doors that lead outside for prolonged periods of time. If you’re staying in one room for a prolonged period of time, such as your bedroom while sleeping, shut the door to prevent heat from escaping.
Pay close attention to your windows. Like doors, leaky windows and poor insulation let cold drafts into your home. Use weatherstripping, window insulation kits, or caulk to seal any gaps in the frame. Be sure to lock your windows to create a tighter seal. You can close your curtains to add an extra layer of insulation, but if it’s sunny, consider leaving them open to let the sun naturally heat your home.
Keep Vents Clear
While it may seem best to keep couches and other furniture near your vents, large furniture items can actually prevent heat from circulating. Keep vents clear of furniture and debris so heat can move freely through your home.
Focus on Floors
Anyone who has walked barefoot on hardwood floors in the winter knows floors can feel like freezers. Cold air seeps through thin wood or laminate, lowering your house temperature in Winter and making your heater work overtime. Consider adding thick rugs or wall-to-wall carpet to insulate your floors. For a long-term solution, add foam underlayment to keep the cold out.
Don’t Forget Fireplaces
Ironically, a fireplace can make your home chillier when not in use, as warm air can escape through the open chimney. Close the chimney flue after each use to trap warm air, or install tempered glass doors to insulate the area. Just like windows and doors, check your hearth for cracks and seal them using caulk or other sealant.
Contact Harker Heating & Cooling for Your Heating Needs
Still feeling the winter chill after these tips and tricks? Contact our Harker experts to keep your heating system in tip-top shape and ready to face the cold.
