Winter is here, bringing cozy nights, warm blankets, and—unfortunately—sky-high heating bills. But don’t worry, keeping your apartment warm doesn’t have to mean cranking up the thermostat. With a few simple tweaks, you can stay toasty while saving money. We’ve rounded up expert-backed tips to help you make the most of winter without freezing (or spending a fortune!).
1. Seal the Drafts and Keep the Heat Inside
If your apartment still feels chilly no matter how high you set the heat, drafts might be to blame. Cold air loves sneaking in through windows, doors, and even outlets. Annoying, right?
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends using caulking or weatherstripping to seal cracks and openings, keeping cold air out where it belongs. Simple fixes like a door draft stopper (or even a rolled-up towel) can make a huge difference. A little effort now means big savings later!
2. Insulate Your Windows with Plastic Film or Bubble Wrap
Windows are notorious for letting out heat. If you’ve ever felt a cold breeze near one, you know what we’re talking about.
A quick and inexpensive fix is using window insulation kits or even good old bubble wrap to create an extra barrier. According to experts, applying plastic film to your windows can lower heating costs by up to 10%. Plus, it peels off cleanly when spring rolls around—no sticky residue!
3. Swap Out Lightweight Curtains for Heavy Drapes
If you’re using sheer curtains in winter, you’re basically inviting the cold in. Our Fallbrook Flats Property Manager, Angel, recommends thermal or blackout curtains. This can help keep the heat inside where it belongs and keeps your space warmer. Want an even bigger win? Open them up during the day to let the sun work its magic for free heat.
4. Reverse Your Ceiling Fan
Did you know your ceiling fan can actually help warm your apartment? It’s true! Just switch it to spin clockwise at a low speed, and it will push warm air back down into the room.
Want to know exactly how to do that? Locate the direction switch on the motor housing (in some cases, the switch may be located inside the switch housing or switch cup), and flip the switch in the opposite direction. Directional switches may move vertically (up and down) or horizontally (side to side from left to right).
5. Keep Heating Vents Clear
Your heating system can only do its job if the warm air has space to circulate. If your vents are blocked by furniture, rugs, or curtains, your apartment isn’t heating as efficiently as it should.
Bailey Carson, a home care expert at Angi, explains that closing vents in unused rooms won’t save energy (like I mistakenly thought it would!). In fact, it can actually make your HVAC system work harder. Keeping vents clear ensures proper airflow and helps maintain an even temperature.
6. Throw Down Some Rugs
Hardwood and tile floors might look great, but they’re not doing you any favors in winter. Walking barefoot on a freezing floor? No, thank you.
JCMLiving‘s designer, Brocha, suggests using area rugs to insulate floors and reduce heat loss through the ground. Plus, they keep your feet warm. Win-win!
7. Use a Humidifier to Make the Air Feel Warmer
Dry air makes your apartment feel colder than it actually is. Ever notice how summer heat feels warmer when it’s humid? Same idea.
Running a humidifier can keep the air comfortable and make lower temperatures feel warmer. The ideal relative humidity level for your home is between 30% and 50%, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Bonus: It also helps with dry skin and static electricity.
8. Close Doors to Rooms You Don’t Use
If you have rooms that don’t get much use—like a guest bedroom or office—keeping the doors closed can help concentrate the heat where you need it most.
An expert explains that blocking off areas not connected to the main HVAC system helps redirect warmth to frequently used spaces. No need to heat a room no one is using!
9. Cook and Bake More Often
Using your oven naturally generates heat, so why not make the most of it? Winter is the perfect time to cook at home and bake your favorite treats. Comfort food season, anyone?
And let’s point out that cooking at home not only means delicious meals but also adds extra warmth to your apartment. Just be sure to turn off the oven when you’re done baking—safety first!
10. Be Ready for Cold-Weather Emergencies
Winter storms can be unpredictable, so having an emergency kit on hand is always a smart move. Stock up on essentials like flashlights, extra blankets, batteries, and non-perishable food.
JCMLiving suggests creating an emergency kit with all the basics, including a first-aid kit and essential medications. Hopefully, you won’t need it—but it’s always good to be prepared!
Stay Warm and Save Money This Winter
With these easy hacks, you can keep your apartment warm and cozy without running up your energy bill. Try a few of these tips, and you’ll be able to enjoy winter without constantly reaching for the thermostat—or an extra blanket!
