20 Easy Ways to Keep Your House Warm on a Budget

2. Blankets and throws

Harness the power of blankets and throws and create a warm inviting space in your home. Consider using heavier blankets or duvet during particular chilly nights for added warmth.

3. Thermal curtains

Windows can be a significant source of heat loss. Installing thermal curtains or lined curtains with insulating properties is an inexpensive way to reduce heat transfer through the windows.

4. DIY draft stoppers

You can create your own draft stoppers by filling socks or tights with rice or dried beans. Place these draft stoppers along the bottoms of doors and window sills to prevent cold air from seeping in.

5. Hot water bottles

Hot water bottles are a classic and cost effective way to stay warm, especially in bed. Fill a rubber or fabric hot water bottle with warm water and place it at the foot of your bed before you go to sleep to avoid not being able to fall asleep because your feet are cold.

6. Warm beverages

Sipping on warm beverages such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate or cocoa can raise your internal body temperature, as well as provide a psychological boost. Invest in a good thermos flask to take your favorite warm drinks with you wherever you go.

7. Utilize the sunlight

Take advantage of natural heat by opening curtains and blinds during the day. Sunlight is not only a good mood booster, but is also a free and efficient way to warm up your home and living spaces.

Be sure to close curtains once the sun sets to trap the accumulated heat indoors.

8. Electric blankets

While electric blankets have an upfront cost, they are an energy efficient way to help stay warm during the colder months.

Using an electric blanket allows you to lower your overall heating expenses by concentrating warmth directly where you need it, which is your body.

9. Seal gaps and cracks

Use weather stripping, cork or firm sealant to seal openings around windows and doors and other potential entry points for drafts. This simple step can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home.

10. Insulate your home

Proper insulation is key to maintaining a warm indoor environment. While professional installation can be expensive, there are budget friendly alternatives.

Consider using draft excluders for doors and adding affordable extra insulation to your attic or your crawl spaces.

11. Warm socks and slippers

Having cold feet can make you feel chilly all over, so invest in good pairs of warm socks and cozy slippers. Consider investing in more expensive materials like wool or fleece.

12. Exercising

Engaging in physical activity generates body heat helping you stay warm naturally. Regular exercise also improves blood circulation which is essential for maintaining warmth in your extremities.

13. Bake and cook

Using your oven to bake or cook can warm up your kitchen and nearby living spaces. Take advantage of this heat source by preparing meals that require longer cooking times such as stews, casseroles and baked goods.

After cooking, leave the oven door slightly open to let the residual heat circulate.

14. DIY radiator reflectors

If you have radiators in your home, you can maximize their efficiency by placing a reflector behind them – they will direct heat back into the room instead of allowing it to be absorbed into your walls.

Using aluminum foil or reflective cardboard can be cost effective alternatives.

15. Reverse ceiling fans

If you have a ceiling fan, check for a reversible setting that allows it to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This will help circulate warm air trapped near the ceiling into your living space and create a more even temperature.

16. Move your furniture away from vents

Ensure that your heating vents are not obstructed by furniture or other items. This simple adjustment can improve the efficiency of your heating system.

During the night, make sure the curtains are tucked behind the radiator and not in front of it.

17. DIY space heaters

Placing a bowl of hot water in a room can add moisture to the air, making it feel warmer. Alternatively, positioning candles strategically in a safe container can generate additional heat.

18. Wear a heat

A significant amount of heat is lost through the head so keeping it covered can contribute to overall warmth. Throughout history people used to wear hats and caps to sleep, and you can opt for a cozy beanie or knit yourself a hat to stay comfortable in these colder temperatures.

19. Utilize electric fans

In addition to reversing ceiling fans, electric fans can be used strategically to distribute warm air. Place a fan near a heating source to help circulate the warmth throughout the room.

20. Take advantage of body heat

Gathering all your household members in one room during the evening is a great way to share warmth and reduce the need for heating the entire house. A pet, such as a cat, dog or rabbit, can also be an excellent substitution for a hot water bottle for your lap.

How to keep your house warm on a budget

By implementing some of these 20 cost-effective strategies, we can create a warm and inviting living environment without relying heavily on our expensive heating systems.

How do you keep warm in this biting weather? Let me know in the comments!

Next, check out these 7 Easy Frugal Living Tips to Save Money.