Most Comfortable Winter Ever

We’re not in the business of predicting the weather this winter, but we can assume a few things – it will snow. It will be cold. Some days it will be downright frigid.

Winter’s wrath outside can sometimes make it a struggle to stay comfortable inside. It doesn’t have to be that way. Our cold weather tips range from no-cost to low-cost to those that may take a little investment, but all add up to helping you have the most comfortable winter ever in your home.

If you have a ceiling fan, use it.

Using a ceiling fan in the winter isn’t weird, it’s actually very useful, just make sure you have it set to spin clockwise. In the winter, a ceiling fan can help to redistribute the warm air in a room. This makes it feel warmer and can help reduce heating costs by as much as 15%.

Host frequent gatherings with friends or family

Whether you start a book club or have weekly dinner parties, keeping your home filled with guests is a great way to warm it up naturally and have some fun while you’re at it. With this extra warmth, you can reduce the thermostat temperature to save energy. Even more warmth can be generated if you spend a few hours in the kitchen cooking.

Move around

Staying active while indoors warms up your body, again, allowing you to set the temperature a little lower and still feel comfortable. You could put on a workout video and get your sweat on, but even just moving around while doing chores or keeping up with the kids or a pet can be enough to warm up. You’ll also stay fit, improve your mental health, and boost your immune system which keeps winter illnesses at bay.

Hang insulating curtains

Keeping the curtains closed, especially at night, can help keep warm air from escaping through your windows. Look specifically for insulating curtains that provide an even great barrier to prevent the loss of warm air. Additionally, you’ll get a fresh new look to your living room, bedroom, or wherever you have curtains.

Install a Wi-Fi thermostat

A Wi-Fi thermostat, also known as a smart thermostat, gives you greater control over your comfort. They’re relatively easy to install and even easier to program. Some Wi-Fi thermostats will adapt to your schedule automatically while others while adjust based on outdoor temperatures. All in all, they make achieving comfort at home a cinch while saving energy when you’re away. The Sponsors of Mass Save® offer rebates up to $125 on qualifying Wi-Fi thermostats.

Stop drafts and seal air leaks

A drafty home is an uncomfortable home. It also leads to energy loss and higher energy bills. You can feel around for air leaks in your home and seal them up with caulk. Cracks around door frames and window frames are typical culprits. Add weatherstripping around windows and doors and door sweepers under doors as well. There are probably more leaks than you can find just by feeling around. Consider a no-cost home energy assessment for a more complete examination of all the areas where you can stop air leaks. You’ll also learn if you could benefit from insulation upgrades as well.

Upgrade your heating equipment

If your heating system is nearing 15 years or older or if you’re having problems staying warm, it may be time for new equipment. High-efficiency gas heating equipment can provide plenty of comfort at significant energy and cost savings. Make sure your heating contractor helps you select the appropriate size equipment for your home to ensure comfort. A new heating system, in combination with air sealing and insulation upgrades, is the most effective way to address your comfort at home this winter. The Sponsors of Mass Save® offer rebates up to $1,600 on high-efficiency gas heating equipment.