We have suffered a cold winter by all accounts. Snow and ice have made it feel even colder. It’s as if the cold is sitting outside of our homes like an intruder trying to get in. In fact, that’s a great way to look at it when it comes to keeping your home warm.

We install heating systems in Lynchburg Virginia and provide heating oil to Lynchburg and surrounding counties. This makes us a bit of an expert on the topic. We have served Lynchburg in this capacity for well over 40 years.

The bitter cold months can turn your cozy home into a chilly challenge, with howling winds and plunging temperatures testing even the best heating systems. But you don’t have to crank the thermostat to uncomfortable (and expensive) levels or shiver under layers indoors. Here are practical, proven tips to keep your home comfortably warm while staying energy-smart and safe during the deepest freezes.

1. Seal Drafts

The number one way that your house loses heat energy is through tiny cracks around doors, windows and within your home’s foundation. Even if you cannot feel the draft from these tiny spots they may still be occurring. One way to check is to light an incense stick and hold it around your doors and windows. If you notice the smoke moving in any direction, then you probably have leakage.

The solution is to apply weather stripping to these areas. You should also caulk any cracks you see. For extra protection on older windows, install clear plastic window film kits (inexpensive and removable) or even bubble wrap on the inside for temporary insulation.

2. Maximize Free Solar Heat

The sun is your friend! During sunny days make sure to open your curtains/shades and let that beautiful sunlight in. Make sure to close them when the sun goes down so as to avoid cold windows sucking heat energy from your home like a reverse radiator. Thermal or insulated curtains add another layer, holding warmth in like a blanket for your windows.

3. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

68 degrees is the optimal setting for cold winter months. That may seem a bit chilly for some folks but that is the number scientists have come up with. Wear sweatshirts, pajamas, blankets and other warm clothing to offset any bodily temperature imbalance. Allow the home to be cooler when no one is home. Install a programmable or smart thermostat if you don’t have one; it automates setbacks and can learn your routine.

4. Boost Insulation Where It Counts

Heat rises, so poorly insulated attics and upper floors lose warmth fast. Makes sure your attic has sufficient and well-functioning insulation. If your insulation is old and/or deteriorated then it may be time to remove the old and install newer, more efficient insulation. For quick wins, lay area rugs or carpets over hard floors—they add insulation underfoot and make rooms feel warmer instantly.

We hope you have found this article helpful in your question to stay warm during these brutal winter conditions. If you implement the measures above it may end up saving you 10-20% of your heating bill.