Winter can make a home feel chilly faster than you’d expect, but staying warm doesn’t have to mean skyrocketing energy bills. With a few smart strategies, you can keep your home cozy and comfortable while saving money along the way. Here are seven practical tips to help you protect your home from the cold this season—plus one commonly overlooked area that can make a bigger difference than people realize.
1. Ensure You Have Adequate Insulation
Insulation is one of the most important elements in keeping warm air where it belongs—inside your home. While your walls already contain built-in insulation, sometimes it simply isn’t enough. Window insulation kits are a quick and affordable way to prevent heat loss, and adding extra insulation to your attic or crawlspace can help trap rising heat and even prevent ice dams on the roof.
2. Consider Caulking Gaps and Cracks
Caulking is an inexpensive yet highly effective way to seal air leaks. Over time, window frames and walls can develop tiny gaps that let cold air seep in and warm air leak out. A simple test—holding a lit candle near windows or walls to see if the flame flickers—can reveal drafts. Sealing these spots with caulk can make a noticeable difference in your home’s overall temperature.
3. Install Fireplace Plugs
If you love the open look of a fireplace but don’t want freezing air drifting in, a fireplace plug is a great solution. These inflatable inserts fit snugly inside the chimney to block cold drafts when the fireplace isn’t in use. Even better, they’re designed to deflate automatically if a fire is lit while still in place, providing an added layer of safety.
4. Replace the Furnace Filter Regularly
A clogged furnace filter restricts airflow and forces your heating system to work harder. Dust and debris naturally build up over time, so replacing the filter regularly ensures warm air can circulate efficiently. If your vents seem to be blowing less air than usual, it’s a strong sign that it’s time for a new filter.
5. Move Furniture Strategically
If a couch, chair, or bed is sitting directly in front of a vent or radiator, it’s blocking valuable heat from entering the room. Rearranging furniture to clear these areas helps warm air flow freely and circulate more effectively. Even small changes can result in a more evenly heated space.
6. Close the Curtains at the Right Times
During the day, open your curtains to take advantage of natural sunlight—nature’s free heating system. Once the sun begins to set and temperatures drop, close them to create a barrier that keeps warmth inside and blocks cold air from seeping through the windows.
7. Keep Doors Closed to Contain Warmth
Keeping interior doors closed helps maintain warm pockets of air and prevents heat from escaping into unused spaces. If exterior doors are opened frequently, consider adding a door sweep or a DIY draft stopper to help reduce heat loss each time the door opens.
Bonus Tip: Seal Hidden Leaks Under Sinks and Behind Appliances
Hidden air leaks under sinks and behind appliances can let surprising amounts of warm air escape without anyone noticing. These areas often contain plumbing cutouts or gaps that act as pathways for drafts. Sealing them with foam, weatherstripping, or even rolled towels can noticeably reduce heat loss.
From everyone here at Midwest stay warm, stay protected, and enjoy a cozy winter season. Call us today for a free consultation! 847-640-8000
