As temperatures drop, heating bills start creeping up—but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through the cold or drain your wallet. If you’re renting, making major upgrades isn’t an option, but there are plenty of renter-friendly ways to keep your apartment warm without breaking the bank. Here are some simple and effective tips to help lower your heating costs.
1. Seal Up Drafts
Cold air sneaking in around windows and doors? That’s money leaking out with it! Use these simple tricks to stop drafts:
- Weatherstripping: Stick-on weatherstripping around doors and windows helps keep the cold out. It’s cheap and easy to remove when you move out.
- Draft stoppers: Place a rolled-up towel or a door draft stopper at the base of exterior doors.
- Plastic window insulation: Clear plastic film kits cover windows and help trap heat inside. A hairdryer helps shrink the plastic for a tight seal.
2. Use Your Curtains Wisely
Curtains can do more than just decorate your space—they help control temperature too!
- Open curtains during the day to let the sun naturally warm your apartment.
- Close them at night to trap heat inside, especially if you have thick, insulated curtains.
3. Adjust Your Thermostat Strategically
- Lower your thermostat a few degrees when you’re not home or while sleeping to save energy.
- If your apartment has a programmable thermostat, set it to warm up just before you wake up or get home.
- Don’t blast the heat—slow, steady warmth is more efficient.
4. Layer Up and Use Cozy Accessories
Instead of cranking up the heat, stay warm with:
- Comfy sweaters, socks, and blankets
- Area rugs to insulate cold floors
- Flannel sheets and a thick comforter for a warm bed
5. Reverse Your Ceiling Fan
Most people forget about their ceiling fans in the winter, but they can help! Switch your fan to spin clockwise at a low speed. This pushes warm air (which rises) back down into the room.
6. Use Space Heaters Wisely
If you only need to heat a small space, a portable space heater can be more efficient than heating the entire apartment. Just follow safety tips:
- Keep it away from curtains, bedding, and furniture.
- Turn it off when you leave the room.
- Choose an energy-efficient model with automatic shut-off.
7. Cook and Bake More
Using your oven naturally warms up your kitchen and surrounding areas. So, winter is the perfect time to cook warm meals, bake cookies, or make a hot cup of cocoa! Just remember to turn off the oven when you’re done—never use it as a heating source.
8. Talk to Your Landlord
If your heating system isn’t working efficiently, report it to your landlord. They may need to replace air filters, service the furnace, or check for insulation issues. Some landlords will even provide weatherproofing supplies if you ask!
Stay Warm Without the High Bills
You don’t have to live in an icebox just to save on heating costs. By making small changes like sealing drafts, using curtains strategically, and dressing warmly, you can keep cozy without driving up your energy bill. Try these tips and enjoy a warmer, more comfortable winter—without breaking the bank!
