With the days getting shorter, our thoughts are turning to the beginnings of winter. The coldest season brings both the lowest temperatures and the highest of holiday spirits, and the results of both can drive you to the poor house. If you are worried about your bank accounts going into the winter, here are some strategies to help you save money.
Treat Your Windows
In the winter, your home loses significant heat through improperly sealed windows. If there are cracks along the join between the window and the wall, you will let in the cold and make your internal heating, ventilating, and air conditioning, or HVAC, system work much harder. You can fix the problem with some weather stripping. Furthermore, you can put up some heavy curtains in the winter to insulate the glass and keep even more heat in. Finally, more extreme measures like bubble wrapping the window may be called for if your gas bills become too high for comfort.
Dress Warmly
No matter how well you block off your windows, you might still feel a little chilly indoors. It might sound simple, but dressing warmly is one of the best ways to save money in the winter. If you wear layers and warm fabrics when the weather turns frightful, you’ll be able to avoid cranking the heat quite so much in the colder months. To save some extra money, be sure to shop for coats and long sleeved shirts at your local thrift store.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Sealing your house off and dressing for the weather can make a big difference to your energy bills, but you’ll still want to run your furnace or heat pump to keep the chill out of the air. You can control your spending by carefully monitoring your heat use and adjusting it to suit your specific needs. This means turning off the system when you are out of the house for extended periods. Using a programmable thermostat allows you to turn off the heat when family members go to school or work. A smart thermostat is even better, letting you access your thermostat from a distance.
Make Gifts
Winter doesn’t just mean cold weather. It also brings the holiday season: that time of year where we give thanks for what we have — and give each other more. Christmas presents can become a drain on your seasonal finances, especially if the people on your nice list have pricey tastes. Instead of breaking the bank on high-end consumer goods, you can make some handmade gifts for your loved ones, especially if you are skilled in an art or craft. Let them know in advance not to spend a lot on money on your gift in return, as not making that clear can engender ill will.
You don’t have to worry about depleting your savings account this winter. Use the tips above to keep your spending under control while still enjoying the holidays and keeping your home warm.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
