As we enter winter and experience cold temperatures, homeowners will still want to keep their home cozy and inviting — especially those who are selling!
Turning up the heat alone can be costly. Heating costs are on the rise and it is likely you will face higher heating expenses this year. However, there are other ways you can add warmth to your home.
Here are a few ideas from ‘The Cure for the Common Cold Room: A Safe & Smart Home Heating Guide,’ by ElectricFireplacesDirect.com.
1. Add area rugs: Hardwood and tile floors can make your home feel cold in the winter. Add some area rugs to provide a warmer barrier between your feet and the floor. Non-skid utility rugs or rubber mats can make kitchen floors more comfortable and safe.
2. Set ceiling fans to run clockwise: Yes, a ceiling fan can be used in the winter months too and can even help heat your home. The majority of ceiling fans have two settings: Counterclockwise cools rooms in the summer and clockwise can force warm air downward in the winter. Look for a small switch on the ceiling fan to change its direction clockwise for the cooler months.
3. Rearrange furniture: Check the arrangement of the furniture in the home to make sure it's cozy. Oftentimes, homeowners spread out furniture to fill an entire room. Instead, group pieces together to get a warmer feel. Move furniture away from the windows and doors and closer to the fireplace if there is one in the home.
4. Add moisture to the air: Humid air feels warmer than dry air. Therefore, a humidifier may make a difference. Even cool mist humidifiers — the safest, healthiest kind — can be effective in making rooms feel warmer.
5. Let the sun shine inside: Use the sun to heat your home by adjusting the home's curtains to let the sun in. Open south-facing curtains on sunny days. Also, be sure to close curtains at night to provide an extra barrier against wintry winds trying to squeeze inside the home.
And always remember, if you or your friends or family have real estate needs, we are your Boise, Idaho and North End real estate experts. If you are interested in searching for your next dream home, please click here.
