10 Easy & affordable ways to warm up your house this winter

Fall is in the air, but some states are already feeling the frigid temperatures. With the weather forecast taking a dip, high heat bills and shivering sessions by your living room couch start to make a comeback. The great news is that there are easy and affordable ways to keep your house warm this winter without breaking the bank.   

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Check out these 10 painless and foolproof tips for keeping your house warm this winter. Now, cleaning up the snow, that's another story… 

Image via Corbis

Let sunlight in

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Corbis

During winter, we typically close our curtains so heat doesn't escape, but it's equally important to make sure natural sunlight warms up the room. It is basically free heat! Just make sure to close your curtains back up after sunset.

Make sure not to block the radiator

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Corbis

Being strategic about furniture placement is key in keeping the house warm during winter. Many times we will place couches or nightstands in front of the radiator, which blocks a lot of the heat you are already paying for. Clear the space and you will feel a major difference.

Turn off exhaust fan

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Corbis

Exhaust fans basically suck out all of the hot air that rises to the ceiling. Make sure to only use when needed and try not to leave them on for too long. It will definitely help make your home warmer.

Use a door sweep

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There is usually a small gap between your front door and the floor, which allows for heat to escape at a rapid pace. Buying a door sweep or a door stopper will save you plenty of cash and keep your house nice and cozy.

Use an area rug

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Your floors should be dressing warm too! Especially since wooden floors that are not covered end up in 10 percent of heat loss during winter. Invest in a seasonal area rug and your body temperature will feel a difference.

Cover windows

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Make sure to insulate the room with plastic window covers that help prevent a cold draft from entering your home. There are several affordable and easy kits to try. They are worth the time investment!

Switch to flannel or fleece sheets

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Cotton sheets are great, but they just don't do the job in the winter. Make sure to invest in flannel or fleece sheets and you will feel way warmer throughout the night. Waking up in the morning is another story…

Get thicker curtains

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Winter curtains are made out of a thicker fabric that helps keep cold out. Many are made with thermal lining, which will prevent the heat from escaping your home.

Make sure unused rooms are closed

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This may be a challenge with multiple kids in a household, but enforcing the rule will definitely keep your house warmer during the cold months. It will make sure to trap the heat and keep the cold out.

Dress in layers around the house

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Wearing a tank top and shorts will definitely make you feel colder than it is and may tempt you to crank the heat. To avoid a massive heat bill, dress in layers and make sure to wear thick socks around the house. Trust us, it will save you money in the long run.