Keep your house warm as temperatures drop

Georgia’s summer heat is long gone, temperatures are dropping and freeze warnings are just around the corner. Luckily, there are a number of neat tricks you can utilize to keep your home warm and cozy — for cheap — despite the cold.

Drafty windows

Windows are often the first and last defense against the cold for your home. According to Marquis Management, Inc., replacing older windows with energy-efficient windows is certainly not cheap. Instead, simply make sure all of the latches to your windows are closed.

Then, inspect your windows for any cold air leaks. A high quality caulk will seal any gaps you find. Interior window plastic can provide an extra layer of insulation as well. DIY window kits can often be found at your local hardware store.

Likewise, you can fix drafty doors by installing weather stripping and door sweeps.

Be efficient

Georgia Power suggested a number of useful tips to stay warm during the colder months through efficiency, which can be found below.

• Keep your blinds and shades open during the day so that sunlight can warm your home for free. To ensure maximum heat retention inside the home, close the blinds and shades back up during the night.
• Changing your HVAC filters monthly will ensure your system is working at its intended efficiency, keeping you warmer and your energy bills down.
• Use space heaters sparingly. Space heaters are a great way to warm yourself up, but they will increase your energy costs and they can be fire risks. Space heaters left near curtains, sinks or tubs can spell disaster. Never use an extension cord with a space heater, and always turn your space heaters off before leaving your home.

Double check those fans and vents

According to Better Homes & Gardens, reversing the ceiling fans in your home can make a significant impact on your house’s air circulation.