Winter temperatures in Pennsylvania often dip into the teens. As a homeowner, that means you have a lot of responsibilities to keep your home and family warm. Keeping a toasty house is about more than just comfort, it can help you prevent unwanted winter expenses. Save your money for gifting and avoid common cold-weather emergencies with these winter home hacks from Berks Homes!

Stay Warm While Saving Money

December tends to be a big month for spending on heating. Save money on staying cozy by taking advantage of natural heat. Open your curtains first thing in the morning to let in sunlight. Once the sun passes overhead, close your curtains to keep the warmth in.

Save energy by investing in a programmable thermostat. Keeping temperatures consistent year-round in your home is the best way to stay comfortable while cutting costs. Most new thermostats have features that allow you to pre-set temperatures for time-of-day flexibility too.

Air leaks let in cold drafts and allow heat to escape. On a windy day, place a candle near windows and doors to see if the light flickers. If your flame moves, seal the leak with caulking, weatherstripping, or adhesive foam tape. 

Here are some other low-cost ways to keep your house warm this season.

Prevent Plumbing Emergencies

Some of the most expensive plumbing repairs happen during the winter. Water heater issues and frozen or burst pipes are common problems. Look for plumbing outdoors, in basements and attics, or under sinks that don’t get much warm airflow. Wrap these exposed or vulnerable pipes and faucets in insulation.

For your water heater, have it flushed and inspected by a professional to keep warm temperatures flowing all winter long. A little extra care for your plumbing system goes a long way in the winter months. Check out more winter plumbing tips and ideas to keep water flowing like it should.

Use A Home-Made Humidifier

Avoid dry skin and hair while bringing a festive scent into your home. You could buy a humidifier from the store, but it's just as easy to place a pot of water on your stove top. This cost-effective solution adds to the holiday festivities when you add cinnamon sticks, orange peels, or a few drops of peppermint essential oil to the water.

Keep Floors Clean and Dry

Protect your floors from water damage and stains in the winter. Keep a shallow plastic tray filled with an inch or two of rocks near your front door. Wet and muddy boots can be placed in the tray to dry without dripping all over your flooring.

Keep a stack of rags near each entryway and a compact handheld vacuum at your most used doorway. Use the rags for wiping and drying pet’s paws upon entry and quickly vacuum any debris that’s left behind for headache-free cleanup.

Collect Fire Starters

If you have a wood stove or fireplace, keeping the flame aglow all winter is a must. Gather a collection of everyday household items to get your fires lit quickly and easily. Dryer lint, old newspaper, orange peels, Amazon boxes, stale potato chips, and mail that needs to be shredded are all great fire starting tools.

Winter is often spent indoors in Pennsylvania. Having a home you adore makes the season so much brighter! Spend the New Year and next holiday season in a beautiful Berks Home you love. We have quick move-ins available.