The price of food has dramatically increased over the past few years, and the cost of energy has skyrocketed alongside it. Now is the perfect time to make a plan to prepare for winter before it turns cold.
When winter rolls in, our first instinct is to crank up the heater. However, what if you could stay snug without it? What if you have to manage without it? How to cope without heat should be part of your emergency preparedness plan.
Cover Windows
One creative approach is to use heavy curtains or blankets over windows at night. This simple action traps heat inside your home by adding an extra layer of insulation where most heat is lost. During the day, let sunlight flood in to naturally warm your space.
Use Your Oven
Another tactic involves maximizing the use of your oven. After baking a meal, leave the oven door slightly open to let the residual heat warm your kitchen. This method transforms a routine task into a source of comfort, infusing warmth into the heart of your home.
Layer Up
Layering isn’t just for clothing; it works for floors too. Laying down rugs or carpets can significantly insulate a room. Hard surfaces like tile or hardwood can turn icy, but rugs hold heat and make your living space cozier.
Use Your Hot Water Bottle
Consider the thermal magic of a hot water bottle. Tucked into your bed a few minutes before you enter, it can pre-warm your sheets. This old-school method provides a toasty, welcoming embrace, helping you drift off to sleep comfortably.
Share Body Heat
Let’s not underestimate the power of body heat. Sharing your space with family or friends, and even pets, can raise the temperature significantly. Gather in a single room, close the doors, and you’ll notice how body warmth can fill the area quickly.
Use Your Stove More
Cooking can be a heat source, too. Engage in baking or cooking activities that require prolonged use of the stove. The heat from cooking not only prepares food but also spreads warmth throughout your kitchen and adjoining rooms.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
If your ceiling fans have this option, reverse them. By setting them to run clockwise, fans push the hot air that rises back down into the room. This method is especially effective in rooms with high ceilings.
Make a Draft Excluder
Block drafts with a homemade draft stopper or old towels under doors and around window frames. This method prevents cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. It’s a simple yet highly effective strategy to maintain your room’s warmth.
Layer Clothes, Too
Lastly, dress strategically indoors. Wearing layers, warm socks, and even a hat can dramatically increase your comfort level. Each layer traps heat, and adjusting your clothing allows you to stay warm without adjusting the room temperature.