As a heat dome brings sweltering temperatures and high humidity to large parts of the US this week, many people are finding that keeping their bedroom cool is only half the battle. Even with the fan running, mattresses, pillows, and bedding can retain heat, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay comfortable through the night.

If you've already taken steps to keep a home cool or researched the best ways to keep a bedroom cool, you may still find yourself waking up hot and uncomfortable. That's because your mattress, bedding, and even your pillow can trap body heat long after the air in the room has cooled.

When it comes to sleep, few things are less comfortable than trying to drift off in the peak of summer heat. Sheets cling to skin, mattresses feel stifling, and even your pillow can feel uncomfortably warm.

While there are plenty of ways to design a bedroom for sleep in summer – from air conditioning to blackout window treatments – they do not always solve the deeper problem of sleeping in hot, humid conditions.

So, how do you keep a bed cool in summer? We asked sleep and bedding experts for their advice on staying comfortable during periods of extreme heat. Given that sleep experts generally recommend a cool sleep environment for optimal rest, keeping both your bed and your bedroom cool should be a priority if you want to protect sleep quality and maintain good sleep hygiene during a heatwave.

1. Opt for Natural Fiber Bedding

When choosing the best cooling bed sheets, natural fibers are your best starting point. These materials tend to be more breathable than synthetics and are generally better at wicking away moisture.

If you're shopping for a new set, two of our favorites are the Breescape Cooling Sheet Set from Amazon, which offers impressive cooling performance for the price, and the Brooklinen Classic Percale Hardcore Sheet Bundle, whose crisp percale weave makes it an excellent choice for hot sleepers.

But with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to begin, says Parima Ijaz, Bedding Expert, Founder, and CEO of Pure Parima.

'The most breathable fibers are natural. Cotton, linen, hemp, and bamboo all allow air to circulate easily, helping to regulate temperature and keep the skin cool. However, bamboo fabrics are often processed using chemicals, so from an environmental standpoint, it may not be the most sustainable choice.

'Linen and hemp are highly breathable and temperature-regulating, but they can feel coarse and are prone to wrinkling. Linen can also be more delicate and prone to tearing.

'That leaves cotton as a strong all-rounder. Cotton is naturally absorbent and allows heat and moisture to pass through the fabric. Egyptian cotton, in particular, is more porous, which improves airflow and helps moisture evaporate more efficiently, making it especially effective for cooler sleep.'

Fabric weave is just as important as the fiber itself when it comes to temperature regulation, she adds. 'Percale is the most breathable weave. It's one-over, one-under construction creates a lightweight, crisp fabric that allows maximum airflow.'

2. Invest in a Cooling Mattress Topper

There's no need to replace your entire mattress just because you're struggling to sleep through summer. Instead, a cooling mattress topper can offer many of the same temperature-regulating benefits for a fraction of the cost, says Dr. Chelsea Perry, sleep expert and owner of Sleep Solutions.

'Cooling mattress toppers can make a noticeable difference. Many are made with gel-infused memory foam or latex designed to stay cooler to the touch, offering an easy upgrade without replacing your mattress.'

Ottilie Blackhall, Sleep Editor at Homes & Gardens, agrees that a topper is one of the easiest ways to make an overheating mattress feel more comfortable.

'If your mattress tends to trap heat, a cooling topper is one of the quickest ways to refresh your sleep setup without investing in a brand-new bed. I've tested dozens of sleep products over the years, and the Helix ErgoAlign Mattress Topper stands out for its supportive feel and noticeably cooler sleep surface. It adds cushioning without making you feel like you're sinking into heat-trapping foam, making it one of my favorite upgrades for summer.'

For even more targeted cooling, you can also slip a gel cooling pad inside your pillowcase to help regulate the temperature around your head and neck – one of the fastest ways to feel more comfortable when you're trying to fall asleep on a hot, humid night.

3. Chill Your Sheets Before Bed

If you're looking for a quick fix before climbing into bed, try cooling your sheets first. While it won't keep you cool all night, it can help lower your skin temperature just enough to make it easier to fall asleep – often the hardest part of sleeping during a heatwave.

Molly Freshwater, Co-Founder of Secret Linen Store, recommends popping your bedding in the fridge or freezer for a short time before bed. 'Place your sheets in the fridge for a short time before bedtime for a refreshing burst of coolness. Just make sure they're properly sealed to avoid moisture and odors.'

For best results, fold your pillowcase or top sheet into a clean, sealed storage bag and chill it in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes before bedtime. I use the Hefty Slider Jumbo Storage Bags from Amazon, which are large enough to fit a folded pillowcase or sheet while keeping them protected from moisture and food odors. The cooling effect is only temporary, but that initial burst of cold fabric can help lower your skin temperature, making it much easier to drift off on hot, sticky summer nights.

If you'd rather invest in a longer-lasting solution, the TEMPUR-Cloud Dual Cooling Pillow could be just what you need. Designed with a cooling gel layer that absorbs excess heat and a machine-washable cover, it helps keep your head cooler throughout the night while providing pressure-relieving support for every sleep position.

4. Swap Heavy Duvets for Lighter Layers

One of the simplest ways to keep a bed cool in summer is to rethink your bedding. In hotter parts of the world, it's common to swap bulky comforters for a lightweight flat sheet, allowing for better airflow and less heat retention overnight. While that minimalist approach isn't for everyone, replacing heavy winter bedding with lighter alternatives can make a noticeable difference.

If you prefer the comfort of sleeping under a duvet, choose one with a low tog rating or a lightweight down or down-alternative fill that's designed for summer use. 'Even in summer, a light duvet can be beneficial,' says Dr. Chelsea Perry, Sleep Expert. 'The key is choosing materials that regulate temperature without trapping heat, so you stay comfortable through the night.'

Ottilie Blackhall, Sleep Editor at Homes & Gardens, recommends investing in cooling bedding rather than simply removing layers. Her top pick is the ettitude Signature Bamboo Sheet Set, which she named the winner in our guide to the best cooling sheets.

'The ettitude Signature Bamboo Sheet Set is the coolest bedding I've tested. It has a silky-soft feel that stays cool against the skin, excellent moisture-wicking properties, and a lightweight drape, making it ideal for hot sleepers. If I had to recommend just one sheet set for surviving summer nights, this would be it.'

It's also worth thinking beyond your duvet. Opting for lighter-colored bedding can help create a cooler, airier feel in the bedroom, while pale neutrals, crisp whites, and soft blues create a fresh, calming look that feels psychologically cooler than darker shades. Pairing breathable bedding with cooling colors is an easy way to refresh your sleep space for summer without a complete bedroom makeover.

5. Consider a Bed Climate System

If you regularly struggle to sleep through heatwaves, a bed climate system could be one of the most effective long-term solutions.

Unlike cooling mattress toppers, which rely on breathable fabrics or gel layers that gradually warm up overnight, bed climate systems actively cool your bed while you sleep. Most work by either circulating temperature-controlled water through a thin mattress pad or gently blowing cooled air beneath your top sheet, creating a consistent microclimate around your body rather than simply helping heat escape.

'Think of it as climate control for your bed,' says Dr. Chelsea Perry, Sleep Expert. 'Instead of your mattress slowly absorbing body heat through the night, these systems continually regulate the temperature, helping you stay comfortable until morning.'

They are certainly an investment, with prices starting in the hundreds of dollars, but they're also one of the few cooling solutions that continue working all night rather than losing their cooling effect after an hour or two. Most can also warm your bed during winter, making them useful year-round.

If you're looking for an option that's easy to buy, the BedJet 3 Climate Comfort System, available on Amazon, sits beside your bed and quietly blows temperature-controlled air into a cloud sheet or under your existing bedding.

As heat domes and prolonged periods of extreme heat become more common across much of the US, these systems are increasingly being viewed as practical sleep investments rather than luxury purchases.

Before investing in new bedding, it's worth avoiding common heatwave sleep mistakes, such as exercising too close to bedtime or eating heavy meals late in the evening. Both can raise your core body temperature and make it harder to sleep, even in a cool bedroom.

During a heat dome, keeping your home and bedroom cool is only part of the solution. A few simple bedding upgrades and smarter sleep habits can make all the difference when overnight temperatures stay stubbornly high.

As a heat dome pushes temperatures into the 90s and even triple digits across large parts of the U.S., keeping your kitchen cool can feel like an impossible task. As the heart of the home, it's one of the busiest rooms in the house, and everyday activities such as cooking, baking, and running appliances only add to the heat when outdoor temperatures are already sweltering.

Fortunately, cooling your kitchen doesn't always require cranking up the air conditioning or investing in expensive gadgets. Many of the same strategies experts recommend to keep a home cool during a heatwave also work in the kitchen, from rethinking when you cook to improving airflow and making a few smart layout tweaks.

The key is to stop heat from building up in the first place. By making a few small changes to how you cook, ventilate, and shade your kitchen, you can create a noticeably cooler space without sending your energy bills soaring. If you're relying on fans, knowing how to cool a room with fans properly – by creating cross-ventilation and directing warm air outside – can also make your kitchen feel much more comfortable.

Below, HVAC experts and kitchen designers share their favorite ways to reduce excess heat, improve ventilation, and keep your kitchen feeling fresh throughout the hottest days of summer.

1. Be Strategic About How You Use Appliances

When temperatures soar, one of the easiest ways to keep your kitchen cooler is to rethink when – and how – you cook. Ovens, cooktops, grills, and deep fryers all emit a significant amount of heat, so it's worth saving them for the coolest parts of the day.

'Ovens, cooktops, grills, and deep fryers are the biggest sources of heat in any kitchen, especially during long cooking sessions,' says Eva Lorena, commercial kitchen consultant at Zanduco. 'During a heatwave, try using them early in the morning or later in the evening, and batch-cook where possible to avoid heating the room multiple times throughout the day.'

You can also reduce the amount of heat your kitchen generates by swapping your oven for smaller countertop appliances. 'Use a microwave, slow cooker, or air fryer instead of your oven whenever possible,' Eva says. 'They release far less heat into the room while still getting dinner on the table.'

It's not just cooking appliances that can warm up your kitchen, either. 'Many people forget that dishwashers produce heat, particularly during the drying cycle,' says Anees Jarral, CTO at Cielo Wigle. 'Running yours early in the morning or later in the evening can help keep the kitchen noticeably cooler.'

If you're planning to upgrade your appliances, opting for ENERGY STAR-certified models can help, too. 'They're designed to use less energy, which generally means producing less excess heat,' says Melanie Powers, president at Goodberlet Home Services. 'Refrigerators have improved insulation, while newer dishwashers use smarter technology to shorten cycles and reduce water consumption.'

Another simple way to prevent your kitchen from heating up is to switch off small appliances when you're not using them. Coffee makers, toasters, countertop ovens, and kettles are all among the appliances to unplug during a heatwave, as they can continue drawing power and generating small amounts of heat even when they're idle. If unplugging everything isn't practical, plug frequently used appliances into a timer or smart plug so they switch off automatically when you're finished. It's an easy way to cut standby energy use while helping keep your kitchen a little cooler.

Smart plugs and outlet timers make it easy to switch off countertop appliances when they're not in use. The BN-LINK 24-Hour Mechanical Outlet Timer is a simple plug-and-play option, while the GHome Smart Plug works with Alexa and Google Home from Amazon, letting you schedule appliances or turn them off remotely from your phone, helping reduce standby energy use and unnecessary heat during a heatwave.

Finally, avoid opening your oven door once you've finished cooking. Although it might seem like a quick way to cool the appliance down, it simply releases all that trapped heat into your kitchen. Leaving the door closed while the oven cools naturally will help keep the room more comfortable.

2. Use Your Windows Wisely

Opening your windows is one of the easiest ways to cool a kitchen, but it's important to get the timing right. Throw them open early in the morning or later in the evening, when the air outside is cooler than it is indoors, to flush out warm, stale air.

During a heat dome, keep windows and doors closed through the hottest part of the day, as opening them can let even more heat inside. If you're looking for practical window treatment ideas, a thermal covering such as the Blackout French Door Curtain from Amazon can help block solar heat from entering through glazed kitchen doors or windows while still giving you privacy.

Once temperatures begin to drop, create a cross breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your home to encourage hot air to escape while drawing cooler air inside. If you're worried about summer pests sneaking in with the cooler air, fitting a mesh screen is a simple solution. I like the Mesh Screen with Magnetic Closure from Amazon, which lets fresh air circulate while helping keep mosquitoes and other flying insects outside.

3. Prioritize Good Ventilation

Good ventilation is one of the best ways to stop heat from building up while you cook. If you're looking for practical kitchen ventilation ideas, start by making the most of the extractor hood you already have. A range hood that vents outdoors removes heat, steam, and cooking odors before they have a chance to linger, so switch it on a few minutes before you start cooking rather than waiting until the kitchen fills with steam.

If your kitchen doesn't have an extractor hood, or it recirculates air instead of venting outside, adding an exhaust fan near the ceiling can help pull hot air out of the room. Where that's not possible, a ceiling fan set to rotate counterclockwise will improve airflow and create a cooling breeze, even if it doesn't actually lower the temperature.

To boost your ventilation even further, consider adding a powerful air circulator, such as the Vornado 660 Large Whole Room Air Circulator Fan from Amazon. Unlike a standard desk fan, it moves air throughout the room, helping push warm air toward open windows or your extractor fan for faster cooling.

Don't overlook maintenance. Grease and dust quickly build up on extractor filters and vents, reducing their efficiency just when you need them most. Cleaning them regularly will help your ventilation system perform at its best throughout the summer.

4. Improve Airflow With Your Layout

If you're searching for kitchen layout ideas, don't overlook airflow. The way your kitchen is arranged can have a surprising impact on how warm it feels, with open-concept layouts naturally allowing heat to disperse more easily than enclosed spaces. If you're planning a remodel, consider how your layout will affect ventilation as well as how you use the room day to day.

You don't need to renovate to make a difference, though. Repositioning a portable kitchen island, bar cart, or dining table can open up the room and improve airflow during a heatwave.

'Freestanding kitchen pieces can be moved and rearranged to suit your needs, creating a more relaxed, lived-in feel, although they won't offer quite as much storage as fitted cabinetry,' says Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio. 'For the best of both worlds, combine fitted and freestanding furniture. It gives you visual interest and the flexibility to move pieces around, whether you're trying to keep the room cooler in summer or cozier in winter.'

It's also worth keeping walkways clear and avoiding blocking air vents with stools, trash cans, or storage baskets so cool air can circulate freely.

Appliance placement matters, too. If possible, place ovens and cooktops near exterior walls or windows to help heat escape, while keeping refrigerators out of direct sunlight and leaving enough clearance around them for heat to dissipate efficiently. Avoid clustering large appliances together, as this can create pockets of trapped heat and make the room feel even warmer.

5. Use Shade and Light Colors to Your Advantage

Preventing heat from entering your kitchen in the first place is often easier than trying to cool it down later. Light-reflecting paint colors and cool color schemes can make a noticeable difference in summer, with white and other pale shades bouncing sunlight away and reducing heat absorption.

Window treatments also play a key role. Blinds, shades, and curtains help reduce solar heat gain, especially on windows that receive strong afternoon sun. Keeping them closed during the hottest part of the day can stop your kitchen from overheating, while external options such as shutters, awnings, or exterior shades can block heat before it reaches the glass.

Soft furnishings matter, too. Heavy curtains, dark textiles, and thick rugs tend to trap heat, while lighter natural fabrics like linen and cotton create a fresher, more breathable feel.

As interior expert Jane Rockett of Rockett St George explains, 'Colors on the cooler end of the spectrum – greens through to blues, sea blues, cobalt and soft lavenders – can also help a kitchen feel calmer and more refreshing in warm weather, while lighter shades can make the space feel more open and less oppressive during heatwaves.'

FAQs

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How Can I Cool Down My Kitchen Fast?

If your kitchen is already feeling uncomfortably hot, start by switching on your range hood or exhaust fan to pull hot air outside, while opening windows only if the outdoor air is cooler than indoors.

Skip the oven and opt for no-cook meals, salads, or smaller appliances such as an air fryer, microwave, or slow cooker instead. Turning off unnecessary lights can also help, especially if you haven't switched to LED bulbs, which produce far less heat than traditional incandescent lighting.

If you have ceiling fans, set them to rotate counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze. A portable fan positioned near an open window can also help move hot air out of the room more effectively. One simple upgrade is the Dreo Tower Fan at Amazon, which offers strong, adjustable airflow and can help circulate air quickly when temperatures spike.

If you rely on air conditioning during a heat dome, keep windows and exterior doors closed while it's running to maximize efficiency and reduce energy costs. A simple way to improve cooling performance is to use a smart temperature control device such as the Google Nest Thermostat, which helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures without overworking your system.

Keeping your kitchen comfortable during a heatwave doesn't require an expensive renovation or running the air conditioning around the clock. Smarter cooking habits, effective ventilation, and strategic shading can all make a noticeable difference, helping you enjoy the space without dramatically increasing your utility bills.

One final tip from the experts: don’t default to leaving windows open all day. During a heat dome, it’s often more effective to keep blinds or shades drawn and windows closed through the hottest part of the afternoon to stop heat from building up indoors.

Then, once temperatures begin to fall in the evening, open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross breeze and quickly release trapped warm air. Getting the timing right with ventilation can make just as much difference as investing in cooling equipment.

When temperatures climb, staying cool at home doesn't always require an expensive portable air conditioner. Sometimes, it's the smaller, budget-friendly gadgets that make the biggest difference – particularly if you're looking for personal cooling while working from home, relaxing in the yard, or winding down before bed.

ALDI is bringing back one of its most popular warm-weather buys for cooling a home in summer: the Ambiano Portable LED Air Cooler, available in stores for just $14.99 while supplies last.

As with many ALDI Finds, it's expected to sell quickly once it hits shelves. What immediately caught my eye, though, wasn't just the price. I love the retro-inspired, design-led look, which makes what could be a fairly ordinary cooling gadget feel a little more considered – and, dare I say, a lot cooler. It's the kind of appliance you wouldn't mind leaving out on a desk or bedside table – even if your fanciest guests are around.

And while I love my LEVOIT Tower Fan and DREO Tower Fan from Amazon – they both perform exceptionally well – this compact cooler takes a slightly different approach. Unlike a traditional fan, it uses evaporative cooling technology to help lower the temperature of the air around you. Simply fill the removable water tank, add ice for an extra cooling boost, and it delivers a noticeably cooler stream of air right where you need it.

It won't replace whole-room air conditioning, but it’s perfect for making your immediate surroundings feel more comfortable during hot, sticky weather.

A Budget-Friendly Way to Stay Cooler

If you're already thinking about how to cool a room with fans or want to keep a garage cool, this compact cooler stands out for its portability and ease of use. With a built-in carry handle, USB-C power, and small footprint, it moves effortlessly from desk to bedside table, kitchen counter, or even a covered patio outdoors.

It features three fan speeds, a removable water tank for quick refills, and a washable filter to keep maintenance simple and hassle-free. A built-in LED light with multiple color settings adds an unexpected extra, doubling as ambient lighting and making the unit feel far more versatile than its budget-friendly price suggests.

Is It Worth Buying?

Like all evaporative coolers, this model works best in hot, dry climates or for creating personal cooling in your immediate space, rather than lowering the temperature of an entire room. That's also why it uses far less energy than a portable air conditioner, making it an attractive option if you're trying to stay comfortable without sending electricity bills soaring.

At under $15, it's one of those practical seasonal buys that's hard to ignore. Whether you're working through a heatwave, need a little extra cooling at your desk, or simply want a portable option you can move around the house, ALDI's latest Ambiano cooler looks set to be another summer sell-out.

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We’re in the middle of an extreme heatwave, and when temperatures spike like this, most of us start looking for quick, affordable ways to stay cool without running up energy bills. ALDI has just dropped a simple option that fits neatly into that mindset: the Ambiano Portable Evaporative Air Cooler, priced under $50.

When it comes to cooling a home in summer, I’ve been using a combination of the Arctic Air Pure Chill 2.0 Evaporative Air Cooler and a DREO Tower Fan from Amazon to keep things comfortable, while ALDI’s version slots into the same kind of setup as a budget-friendly alternative.

Compact evaporative coolers like these offer a simple, low-cost approach. Unlike an air conditioner, they don’t use refrigerants or a compressor. Instead, they work using evaporative technology – pulling warm air through a water-moistened filter or pad, where the air is cooled as the water evaporates before being pushed back out.

I usually pair this kind of setup with a tower fan to help circulate the cooler air around the room, which makes the space feel fresher and less stagnant. It’s a more natural, low-energy way of improving comfort, especially in dry heat.

How Evaporative Cooling Actually Works

An air cooler is often confused with an AC unit, but the experience is quite different. Rather than aggressively lowering room temperature, it focuses on improving how the air feels. As water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the air passing through the system, creating a gentle cooling effect along with a slight increase in humidity.

That’s why it’s best used for personal spaces rather than whole rooms. It’s the kind of device you place next to a desk, bed, or sofa to create a more comfortable pocket of air where you actually need it.

If you’re already thinking about how to cool a room with fans, this sits in the same category of simple, low-energy solutions. Fans move air to create a wind-chill effect, while evaporative coolers go one step further by slightly cooling that moving air.

A Practical Fix for Hot Spots Around the Home

The appeal is how flexible it is. There’s no installation, no setup beyond adding water, and no long-term commitment. You can move it from room to room depending on where the heat feels most intense.

It can also be surprisingly useful in harder-to-cool spaces like how to keep a garage cool, where airflow is limited and temperatures can climb quickly. While it won’t replace proper insulation or ventilation, it can make time spent in those spaces more bearable.

As heatwaves become more frequent across the US and Europe, compact solutions like this are becoming more popular because they focus on comfort where it matters most, rather than trying to cool an entire home at once. The Ambiano Portable Air Cooler is simple, affordable, and designed for exactly that kind of everyday relief.

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As summers across the US become increasingly hot, keeping your home comfortable can sometimes feel like an uphill battle, with air conditioning and fans often seen as the only answer. But creating a cooler home doesn't always require a major renovation or running the AC around the clock.

There are some surprisingly clever appliances and small upgrades that can make a real difference, helping rooms feel fresher, improving airflow, and reducing heat build-up indoors. Many of these ideas can help you keep a home cool without AC, while others are smart ways to cool a room with fans and use air movement more effectively throughout the day.

According to data from Climate Central, temperatures are rising across every season in the United States, with many cities experiencing more frequent and intense heat waves. That makes finding ways to keep a home cool in a heat wave increasingly important, not just for comfort but also for protecting your health, reducing energy use, and minimizing the strain extreme temperatures can place on your home.

From smart gadgets to simple investments that quietly do the hard work for you, these five solutions can help create a cooler, more comfortable home this summer – and you can use many of these tips to keep a kitchen cool and a bed cool during the peak summer months.

1. Use Fans to Encourage Air Circulation

When temperatures soar, it’s easy to assume the air conditioner is the only real solution. But one of the simplest and most effective ways to make a room feel cooler is simply getting the air moving more intentionally.

I’ve been doing this a lot recently, especially on warmer evenings, and it’s made a noticeable difference. Rather than immediately reaching for the AC, I’ve been using fans more strategically to encourage airflow through the house, and rooms genuinely feel fresher and less stuffy as a result.

If you have a ceiling fan, make sure it’s spinning counterclockwise during summer. This pushes air downward and creates a gentle wind-chill effect that helps you feel cooler, even though the room temperature hasn’t actually changed. Keeping air circulating like this can also help reduce how long you need to run the air conditioning.

Portable fans can be just as effective when used with a bit more intention. Instead of pointing one directly at yourself, think about how air moves through your home and use fans to create a natural cross-breeze. This helps push trapped heat out while drawing cooler air back in – one of the simplest ways to keep a home comfortable without over-relying on AC.

I genuinely love the Shark TurboBlade Fan and the Dyson Purifier Cool Gen1 TP10 from Amazon – both feel like some of the best fans I’ve used for creating steady, consistent airflow without the room ever feeling stagnant.

Try this: place one fan about three feet in front of a sun-drenched window facing outward to push hot air outside, then position a second fan near a shaded window angled into the room to draw cooler air in. I’ve found this works especially well first thing in the morning and later in the evening when temperatures drop, and it’s one of those small tweaks that can make a home feel noticeably more comfortable without much effort.

2. Use Lightweight Fabrics to Filter Heat and Light

When it’s hot outside, it’s tempting to throw open every window in the house. But during the hottest part of the day, that’s often the quickest way to let more heat indoors. I’ve been much more conscious of this recently, keeping blinds and curtains partially drawn in sunny rooms and waiting until the evening to open windows once temperatures have started to drop.

The exception, of course, is during particularly humid weather. If it’s still warmer or stickier outside than it is indoors, it’s usually best to keep windows closed and focus on shading rooms from direct sunlight instead.

I’ve also been paying much more attention to the fabrics in my home. Soft furnishings play a bigger role in summer comfort than I think many of us realise. Natural materials like linen and cotton feel noticeably cooler and allow air to move more freely, whereas synthetic fabrics often seem to hold onto heat and make rooms feel heavier and stuffier.

Good window treatment ideas make a particularly big difference. I’ve been looking at pieces like the Pieced Stripe Cotton Blend Woven Blackout Curtain from Anthropologie and the Blackout Aruba Curtain Panels Natural from Threshold™ at Target – both of which strike that balance between blocking harsh sun and still feeling considered in a space.

While blackout curtains can be helpful, I do find heavier styles can sometimes make a room feel a bit closed off in summer. Instead, I lean toward lighter layers or breathable fabrics that soften sunlight while still letting natural light filter through.

A mix of airy cotton or linen-style curtains can be surprisingly effective. They help diffuse strong sun, reduce heat gain, and keep rooms feeling bright, fresh, and usable throughout the day, which is exactly the kind of atmosphere I want at home in summer.

3. Create a Cooling 'Buffer' Around Your Home

Some homes seem to hold onto heat no matter what you do. If yours tends to stay warm long after the sun has gone down, it can help to think beyond the four walls of your home and focus on the spaces just outside it.

Even something as simple as sitting on a shaded patio or balcony for an hour can feel noticeably cooler than being indoors. These outdoor spaces can act as a kind of cooling buffer, creating a gentler transition between the heat outside and the rooms inside.

This idea has long been used in warmer climates, where verandas, porches, and planted courtyards help temper heat before it reaches the home itself. You can borrow the same principle in your own home and garden. A shaded seating area with plenty of greenery, an outdoor fan to encourage airflow, or even a few well-placed planters positioned near doors and windows can all make a surprising difference.

I’ve always loved how much impact a simple window box or planter can have here. The Tuscan Ceramic Rectangle Planter for windows from Nordstrom is a personal favorite of mine for this, and the Bloem Dura Cotta Window Box Planter in Green from Nordstrom has been sitting on my wish list for a while now.

If you have a balcony, don’t underestimate its potential. One of the best things you can do is fill it with plants. Lush containers, climbing vines, and window boxes help create pockets of shade and prevent the sun from striking walls and glass directly. This is especially useful for south- and west-facing rooms, where surfaces can quickly absorb heat and then radiate it back indoors well into the evening.

If you want to cool a room naturally, start by shading the outside of your windows. External shade is far more effective at reducing heat gain than relying solely on curtains or blinds indoors. And if you’re planning to leave windows open after sunset to catch cooler air, adding bug screens can make the whole setup much more practical during the height of summer.

4. 'Burp' Your Home After Sunset

Most of us instinctively open the windows during the day and close them at night. But when it comes to keeping a home cool in summer, doing the opposite can often work much better.

Rather than shutting everything up in the evening, wait until the sun has gone down and then open windows and internal doors for an hour or two. It's a small habit, but it can leave rooms feeling noticeably fresher by bedtime and help prevent heat from building up indoors day after day.

The idea is often referred to as 'house burping', and it's based on a principle that's been used in warm climates for centuries. Traditional homes were designed to work with the rhythms of the day, absorbing heat and slowly releasing it after sunset. Modern brick and concrete homes behave in much the same way.

By opening windows at night and creating a cross-breeze through the house, you're allowing trapped heat to escape while drawing in cooler air from outside. It works particularly well in places where evenings are significantly cooler than daytime temperatures, but it can also help prevent homes from becoming increasingly stuffy during humid weather. Then, before the late morning sun begins to warm the house again, close windows, blinds, and curtains to keep that cooler air indoors.

It's one of those surprisingly simple habits that can make a home feel far more comfortable during a heatwave, and it doesn't cost a thing.

5. Consider an Air Conditioning Upgrade

When temperatures become consistently high, a fan can only do so much. Air conditioning takes things a step further by actively cooling the air, rather than simply moving it around the room. In very hot climates, it can be one of the most effective ways to keep a home safe and comfortable during prolonged heatwaves.

While passive cooling methods like airflow strategies and shading can make a noticeable difference, sometimes they simply aren't enough when the heat becomes too extreme or prolonged. In those moments, mechanical cooling becomes less of a luxury and more of a practical necessity.

That said, a full central system isn't always practical or necessary. If a permanent installation isn't an option, or you're looking to avoid the cost of replacing an older unit, a portable air conditioner can be a smart alternative.

When weighing up portable air conditioners vs built-in systems, portable or window units tend to be far more affordable upfront and offer a flexible solution. They can be moved between rooms, allowing you to focus cooling where you need it most, rather than running a whole-house system all day.

One top-rated option to consider is the Coolblus Portable Air Conditioner from Amazon, which is consistently rated for its strong cooling performance and ease of use in small to medium-sized rooms. It combines cooling, dehumidifying, and fan functions in one unit, making it a practical all-in-one choice for managing summer heat in a more targeted way.

This more focused approach can also help manage energy use more efficiently, especially when you're only cooling occupied spaces rather than the entire home.

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With temperatures soaring across the US, knowing how to cool a room with fans has gone from a nice-to-know tip to an essential summer skill. Parts of the country, including Florida and Texas, are already experiencing triple-digit heat, and forecasters warn that even hotter conditions could still be on the way.

The good news is that you don't necessarily need to keep the air conditioning blasting all day to stay comfortable. When used strategically, even the best fans can make a room feel noticeably cooler, helping circulate air more effectively and easing the strain on both your AC system and your energy bills.

From creating a cross-breeze to positioning fans in the right spots, a few simple tweaks can make a surprisingly big difference when it comes to keeping a home cool in a heatwave. Here, HVAC experts share their favorite tricks for getting the most cooling power from your fans during periods of extreme heat.

1. Create a Cross-Breeze

If you're wondering how to keep a home cool in a heatwave, creating a cross-breeze is one of the simplest and most effective tricks to try. It doesn't require air conditioning or expensive gadgets – just a bit of strategic fan placement.

'The only thing better than one fan is using two fans to cool down a living room rapidly,' says Beatrice Flores, Home Care Expert at Living Pristine. To create a cross-breeze, place one fan facing out of a window on one side of the room and a second fan facing in through a window on the opposite side. This helps push hot, stale air outside while drawing cooler air in, creating a steady flow of air through the space.

'This will direct the airflow from both fans across the room, cooling the air quickly,' explains Beatrice. 'Additionally, the fans will help to circulate the cool air throughout the room, ensuring that all areas are evenly cooled.'

A compact air circulator, such as the Amazon Basics Air Circulator Fan, is ideal for this setup. And if you don't have two fans, you can still create a similar effect by opening windows at opposite ends of your home to encourage a natural cross-draft. It's a trick Punteha van Terheyden, Head of The Hardworking Home at Homes & Gardens, swears by after living through the blistering summer heat of the Middle East.

2. Use Strategic Fan Placement

If you’ve ever wondered whether pointing a fan out of a window actually helps cool a room, the short answer is yes – placement really does make a difference. According to Josh Mitchell, HVAC Technician and Owner of Air Conditioner Lab, where you position your fan can significantly change how effectively it cools your space.

Thoughtful placement helps improve airflow and makes use of natural temperature differences, which can also help reduce that heavy, humid feeling indoors. It’s less about running the fan harder and more about working with the air you already have.

‘Placing a fan in a window with the front facing into the room can draw in cooler outside air during the evening and night,’ he says. ‘This method works especially well in areas where temperatures drop significantly after sunset. Just make sure the window is shaded during the day so you’re not pulling in warm air.’

It’s also worth keeping an eye on energy use during a heatwave. Fans are relatively inexpensive to run, but costs can still add up if they’re left on around the clock – especially when multiple units are in use.

3. Work With Your Furniture to Guide Airflow

Fan placement doesn’t just affect how much air you feel – it also shapes where that air goes. One simple trick is to use your larger furniture pieces to help direct airflow around the room more effectively.

‘When a fan is placed next to large furniture, it helps send airflow in the right direction, ensuring a more even distribution of cool air throughout the room,’ explains Joe Haycock, vice president at Fresh Air Concepts.

The key is not to block the airflow, but to guide it. Think of sofas, beds, or bookshelves as tools that can help 'channel' the breeze rather than stop it. You may even want to temporarily shift things around during a heatwave to open up clearer pathways for air to move through the space.

It’s a simple, low-effort way to create a more comfortable, DIY-style cool room – a clever and cost-effective approach to eco-cooling your home naturally while keeping energy use down.

4. Hang Wet Towels Near Your Fan

If you’re only working with one fan, you can still boost its cooling effect with a simple evaporative trick. Hanging a lightly damp towel or sheet nearby helps cool the air as it circulates, making it especially useful when you’re trying to keep an apartment comfortable in summer without AC.

The key is moisture level – the fabric should be damp, not soaking wet, so it cools the air without dripping or creating excess moisture in the room. As the fan blows air across the fabric, evaporation speeds up, drawing heat from the surrounding air and creating a noticeably cooler effect.

This works best when the towel is positioned directly in the airflow and secured so it won’t shift or fall. Simple wire clips, such as the Wire Clothes Pins available on Amazon, are a practical option for keeping everything in place.

For an extra boost, lightly misting the room with a spray bottle while the fan is running can help provide a quick hit of relief. The Plastic Spray Bottles available on Amazon make it easy to distribute a fine mist without over-wetting the space. It’s a low-cost, low-tech method that can make a surprising difference during a heatwave, especially when you’re relying on fans alone to stay comfortable.

5. Use Ice to Cool the Air Faster

If you want an instant upgrade to your fan’s cooling power, ice is one of the simplest tricks you can try. Similar to the wet towel method, it uses evaporation and cold surfaces to lower the temperature of the air being circulated around the room.

One of the easiest approaches is to place a shallow bowl or tray filled with ice in front of your fan. As the air passes over it, it picks up the cooler temperature and helps distribute a fresher, more refreshing breeze throughout the space. This can offer quick relief on especially hot days – just remember to top up the ice as it melts.

For a more practical, reusable option, frozen water bottles work just as well and avoid the mess of melting ice. Simply freeze a few plastic bottles and place them in front of or behind the fan so the airflow passes over them as they thaw.

It’s a straightforward DIY method, but surprisingly effective when you’re trying to push your fans further during a heatwave without relying on air conditioning.

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FAQs

Should You Open Windows in Warm Weather?

It depends entirely on the temperature outside – and getting this right can make a real difference to how comfortable your home feels during hot spells.

During the day, it’s usually best to keep windows closed and covered. This helps block direct sunlight and prevents hot air from building up indoors, especially in bedrooms where temperatures can quickly rise. Curtains or blinds add an extra layer of protection, stopping heat from penetrating the space and spreading through the home.

At night, though, the advice flips. If the outdoor temperature drops below indoor levels, opening windows can help flush out trapped heat and bring in cooler air. This natural ventilation can be one of the simplest ways to reset a hot room after a long day.

However, it’s important to check conditions before you do. If it’s still warm – or particularly humid – outside, opening windows can actually make things worse. High humidity makes it harder for the body to cool itself through sweat, meaning the air can feel even more uncomfortable rather than refreshing.

If you’re battling extreme heat at home, it’s essential to stay hydrated, keep air flowing through your space, take cool showers when needed, and switch to breathable, cooling bedding to help regulate your temperature at night.

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Keeping a garage cool is rarely top of mind for many homeowners, yet in hot, humid summers and during extended heatwaves, these spaces can become significantly hotter than the rest of the home. Poor insulation, limited airflow, and minimal ventilation often mean heat builds up quickly, especially in sun-exposed or attached garages, which can also put stored belongings at risk.

Garages also tend to become the most cluttered areas of the home, gradually filling with tools, seasonal items, and boxes that don’t have a permanent place indoors. When this happens, they can turn into catch-all storage spaces that are difficult to manage. Good garage organization helps restore order and can also improve airflow, reducing trapped heat and making the space more usable.

More broadly, many of the same principles apply across the home when temperatures rise. Understanding how to keep a home cool without AC and cool in the summer often comes down to improving ventilation, limiting heat gain, and managing sunlight during peak hours – strategies that are just as relevant in a garage as they are in living spaces.

Seasonal adaptability matters too. While summer heat can make garages uncomfortable and potentially damaging for stored items, winter brings the opposite challenge, particularly in colder US states. Planning ahead for both extremes ensures the space remains practical year-round, including how to heat a garage in winter when temperatures drop.

1. Make Sure Your Garage Has Proper Ventilation And Insulation

Proper insulation and ventilation are two of the most effective ways to keep a garage cool during the summer months. Insulation in the walls and ceiling helps slow heat transfer, preventing warm outdoor air from turning the space into an oven.

Many garages in the US are either poorly insulated or not insulated at all, which allows heat to penetrate easily through thin walls and garage doors. ‘If you insulate the walls, ceiling, and garage door effectively using rigid foam insulation, you can significantly reduce the amount of heat that enters,’ says Josh Mitchell, HVAC Expert and Owner of Air Conditioner Lab. ‘I’ve seen this technique work wonders in many garages – once the insulation is installed, the temperature difference can be astonishing,’ he adds.

Ventilation is just as important as insulation. Using ceiling fans to keep air moving, along with opening windows when possible, helps prevent hot, stagnant air from building up. This allows fresh air to circulate without needing to leave the garage door open, which would otherwise let in even more heat.

2. Use A Dehumidifier

In many garages, especially in humid regions or during summer heatwaves, the air can feel much warmer than it actually is due to excess moisture. Controlling humidity is, therefore, a simple but effective way to make the space more comfortable, and a dehumidifier can help achieve that quickly.

‘The way a dehumidifier works is by drawing in the moisture in the air across cooling coils. As the air hits the coils, it condenses and loses its moisture and heat,’ explains Josh Mitchell.

By removing excess humidity, a dehumidifier reduces that heavy, sticky feeling that often makes garages unbearable in warmer months. The result is a noticeably drier, more comfortable environment that feels cooler even without significantly lowering the actual temperature.

For US homes, a practical option is the hOmeLabs 50 Pint Dehumidifier, available on Amazon. It’s well-suited to larger garage spaces, with continuous drain capability and a built-in pump option that makes it easier to run for long periods without constant emptying.

3. Limit Garage Activity During The Day

During the summer months, garages are often in near-constant use, with people moving in and out throughout the day. Each time the garage door opens, hot outdoor air rushes in, quickly raising the internal temperature and making the space even harder to cool down. Over time, this repeated heat exchange can cause the garage to trap warm air and become uncomfortably hot.

‘A good thing to do is to minimise heat-producing activities during peak temperatures,’ says Randy Huckstadt, a licensed HVAC Contractor. ‘For example, avoid using power tools or operating vehicles during the hottest parts of the day.’

Instead, it’s better to plan garage use around cooler hours, such as early morning or late evening. Reducing how often the garage door is opened and closed can also make a noticeable difference. Consolidating trips – rather than going back and forth multiple times – helps prevent unnecessary heat from entering and keeps the space more stable and manageable throughout the day.

4. Shade Your Windows

Garage windows are great for bringing in natural light, but in many US homes, they’re also one of the quickest ways heat builds up inside the space. Without proper shading, strong sunlight can stream through the glass and raise temperatures fast, especially during long summer afternoons and heatwaves.

Adding blinds, shades, or window film can make an immediate difference by reducing solar gain and helping keep the garage more comfortable. It’s a simple upgrade that also improves privacy and makes the space feel more usable day to day. A popular option is the Gila Privacy Control Window Film from Ace Hardware, which helps cut glare while limiting heat entry.

For another budget-friendly fix, aluminum blinds are particularly effective in garages. Their reflective surface helps bounce sunlight away before it can heat up the interior, making them well-suited to functional, no-frills spaces. Widely available on Amazon US, they’re especially useful in garages where vehicles are stored, and overheating can quickly become an issue.

5. Invest In An Exhaust Fan

Improving airflow is one of the most effective ways to reduce heat build-up in a garage, and an exhaust fan can make a significant difference during hot US summers. By actively moving air out of the space, it helps prevent hot, stagnant air from lingering and raising the overall temperature.

‘Invest in an exhaust fan or two to keep air circulating inside the garage,’ suggests Zec Freidus of ZFC Real Estate. ‘Having an exhaust fan near the ceiling and another at ground level can help move warm air out of the garage quickly.’

For best results, exhaust fans should be used strategically to create continuous air exchange, drawing out hot air while allowing cooler air to enter. In particularly warm climates, they can also be paired with a portable air conditioning unit to improve efficiency and maintain a more stable, comfortable environment throughout the day.

6. Use Light-Colored Paint

One of the simplest ways to help keep a garage cooler is through the color of the interior surfaces. It’s often overlooked, but paint choice can have a real impact on how much heat a space absorbs, especially in hot US summers where garages can quickly overheat.

Light garage color ideas, such as white, soft beige, and pale grey, reflect more sunlight and heat, while darker shades tend to absorb and hold onto it. That difference adds up in a space like a garage, where heat can already build quickly through walls, doors, and roofing.

Painting walls, ceilings, and even floors in lighter tones helps reduce heat build-up by reflecting more light away from the surface rather than converting it into warmth. It’s a straightforward change, but one that can noticeably improve how the space feels day to day.

While it won’t replace insulation or ventilation, light-colored paint works well as part of a broader cooling strategy. Combined with airflow and shading, it can help keep the garage more usable and comfortable during the hottest months.

Shop Garage Cooling Essentials

Keeping a garage cool during summer can feel more challenging than ever as temperatures continue to rise and heatwaves become more frequent across many regions. Garages tend to heat up quickly and retain that warmth, especially when ventilation and insulation are limited. However, with the right design choices and effective airflow solutions, an overheated garage doesn’t have to be a constant concern.

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If you are finding it hard to sleep this summer for heat consuming you at night, there might be a simple storage mistake in your bedroom at the root of it all.

Home cooling experts and professional organizers warn that keeping lots of items stored underneath your bed could be the reason you can't cool down at night.

Here, they detail the common storage mistake to avoid, and exactly why it drives up heat-related discomfort at night.

As Kevin Pennington, a member of the Institute of Refrigeration, advises in collaboration with Sharps, the area of concern is, surprisingly, your underbed storage ideas.

'Cold air sinks, so the coolest air is near the floor,' he explains. 'If you have lots of belongings stored under the bed, you are not allowing cooler air to circulate, and it traps warm stagnant air right under where you are trying to sleep.'

In turn, this thwarts any efforts you make to cool down a bedroom fast, and any more general attempts you make to sleep better in hot summer weather.

Amber Taggard, Professional Organizer, Storage Expert and Founder of The Organizer Chicks, agrees. 'Summer is here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re looking for every possible way to make your home feel cooler, calmer, and more comfortable.

'While we absolutely want the space under our beds pulling its weight when it comes to storage, we also don’t want it working against us during the hottest months of the year.

'One surprisingly common storage mistake I've seen repeatedly in my 15 years as a Professional Organizer? Packing the area under your bed so full that air can no longer circulate properly.

'Think of the area under your bed as part of your bedroom’s breathing system. When air can move freely, heat and moisture have a better chance of dissipating. When every inch is packed tight, that airflow is reduced.'

The 30-Second Swap to Keep Your Bedroom Cool

Fortunately, the fix is both quick and simple − all you need to do is clear the space. As Kevin explains, this works because the space under your bed acts as a reservoir for cool air, and keeping the area free of any clutter will help avoid any hidden mattress mold caused by underbed storage, too.

'Cold air sinks, so the coolest air in your bedroom sits right at floor level, and that gap beneath the mattress allows it to circulate naturally and draw heat away from you while you sleep.'

And, if you're wondering what the worst underbed storage offenders are, Kevin warns that solid plastic storage boxes, vacuum-packed winter clothes, heavy spare duvets, and cardboard boxes full of shoes are all listed among those to avoid.

'These are all dense, non-breathable materials, and if you've got the space rammed full of them, you're effectively turning the bottom of your bed into a solid block that traps warm, stagnant air right where you're trying to sleep,' he shares.

Instead, if you can't sacrifice your underbed storage space, opt for breathable, low-profile solutions, such as the Breathable Underbed Storage Bins, available at Amazon. Leave plenty of room around them, and periodically pull items out to clean beneath the bed to prevent dust buildup, which can affect air quality.

'It also comes down to how much you're storing. One or two small items pushed to the middle won't do too much damage; air can still move around them,' continues Kevin.

'But most people are short on space, so they pack those big under-bed drawers wall to wall. If the space is full, you're killing the natural airflow of the room. Even just leaving generous gaps around the edges makes a real difference.'

What to Shop

Alternative, breathable solutions for beneath your bed can be a simple swap you can make today so you don't have to lose that coveted storage space entirely.

Whether you're upgrading or overhauling, when decluttering and organizing the area under the bed, it's also crucial to keep this area clean and free of dust, so I've also included our top-rated handheld vacuum for cleaning behind and under beds without moving them.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

'Remember: having your best nest isn’t just about maximizing every inch of storage,' says Amber. 'It’s about creating a home that helps you breathe easier, sleep better, and live more comfortably.'

These hidden bedroom storage buys also offer a stylish alternative to underbed solutions.

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Balancing the comfort of a cool home with the rise in energy costs can be challenging in late spring, with fluctuating temperatures and seasonal weather phenomena at play.

That’s why I spoke to HVAC experts to find out the best temperature to run your thermostat as we move towards the increasing heat and humidity of May, so that you can maintain an ideal environment at home without unsustainably raising your AC costs.

For your household’s well-being, and to keep energy bills in check, use your AC in tandem with other ways to keep your house cool, including strategically placing some of the best fans around key areas of your home.

Why May Home Cooling Is So Tricky In Many Parts of the US

If you're running your trusty oscillating tower fan, such as the Dreo, available at Walmart, but increasingly having to switch on the AC in the last few weeks, you're not alone.

Gary McCurry, HVAC Service Director at Reliable Heating and Air, explains the common seasonal cooling challenges of balancing comfort and cost.

He advises, 'If I had to give one simple spring rule, it would be this: Set it as high as you can while still feeling comfortable, because every degree lower makes your system work harder and costs more.’

Gary says for most homeowners, a good May thermostat baseline is 72 to 74° Fahrenheit when you’re home, then adjust slightly based on humidity, shade, insulation, and personal comfort.

There are many ways to keep your energy costs low, including using a Smart thermostat such as the highly-rated, Wi-Fi compatible Copeland Sensi from Lowe’s, so that your system cycles on and off to maintain a set temperature, rather than running non-stop.

Running yours nonstop can also result in you feeling too cold at home, switching off the AC, and your whole home’s temperature rising, and the cycle repeating. It takes far more energy to re-cool an entire house than it does for a smart thermostat to maintain a steady temperature with shorter cycles.

Gary’s recommendations for the optimum home temperature control in May are:

• If you’re home during the day: 72-74°F
• When sleeping: 70 to 72°F
• Away for a few hours: 76 to 78°F
• Away longer: you can go a little higher, but do not shut the system off completely in humid climates.

Be Mindful of Humidity

Gary adds that May is particularly tricky in many parts of the US as it is warm enough to need cooling, but has not yet reached the full, intense heat of midsummer.

He says, ‘A setting in the low-to-mid 70s usually strikes the best balance between comfort and affordability. It keeps the house cool enough to manage late spring heat and humidity without overcooling the space or driving up utility bills unnecessarily.’

Your home's humidity is a key factor too, as the extra moisture in the air makes it harder for your body to sweat, which is the key cooling mechanism evolution has rewarded humans with.

An affordable set of hygrometers available at Walmart will help you monitor levels. Too much moisture may indicate a failure in draftproofing your home. This quality of your window and door seals, as well as around your attic hatch, will be pivotal in keeping your cooled AC air inside, rather than it leaking out, and reducing your bills by up to 15%. You can also reduce that humidity by running your AC or an energy-efficient dehumidifier, available at Amazon.

HVAC expert Gary adds, ‘In spring and early summer, people often think they need a much lower temperature, when what they are really feeling is excess humidity. If your system is working properly, a moderate thermostat setting can still feel comfortable because the AC is helping remove moisture from the air.

‘The lower you set the thermostat, the longer and harder your air conditioner runs. That means higher energy use and more wear on the system. Keeping the thermostat in that 72 to 74°F range in May can help homeowners stay comfortable without forcing the system to run like it is July or August.

Keeping Your Bills Low While Managing Late Spring Temperatures

Jimmy Campbell, HAC expert at Townsend Total Energy, explains, ‘Maintaining the highest possible comfortable temperature helps keep your AC bills affordable. For example, if you can maintain 70 72°F without your system running constantly, you save roughly 3% per degree, per day.’

He adds that in July, when it's mid-summer and 90°F and hotter, maintaining 68°F indoors is harder.

Jimmy says, ‘The difference between the outdoor and indoor temperature is greater, so your system will have to work harder and longer. In that kind of heat, your home will naturally absorb the outdoor temperature, so accepting a slightly warmer indoor temperature will help you save money.

'Instead of 68°F, aim for 70°F. These indoor temperatures will feel much cooler than the 90°F (or higher) temperatures outside. If you have ceiling fans, keep them on. This will help you feel roughly 5° cooler. Also, keep the blinds closed on windows that face the sun to block out the unwanted heat.'

You should also reverse your fan direction in the summer so they run counter-clockwise. Our HVAC experts have previously told Homes & Gardens that doing this will push cool air down, producing a wind chill that can make a room feel up to eight degrees colder.

How to Avoid Straining Your AC System

It’s a common misconception that AC systems cool ‘faster’ just because you set the thermostat lower. ‘That just means the system will be running longer and costing you more money,’ Jimmy warns. ‘Find your range of comfort and maintain it. You don't need to run your AC 24/7.

‘If your nighttime temperatures dip below your desired indoor temperature, throw the windows open and enjoy the cool air for free.'

Doing this after rain and sudden spring showers will reduce the impact of pollen, too, and it's known as the rain cooling method.

He adds, 'In July, when it's hot even at night and humid, you can keep the AC on, but set it a little warmer while you sleep. 74–76°F is usually a good range for when you are away or sleeping.’

How AC Systems in 2026 Compare to Decades Ago

Over the last few decades, HVAC equipment has improved significantly. Today's standard HVAC systems run at 14-16 SEER ratings (the higher the number, the more cooling you get for every dollar spent on your electric bill) with top-tier units reaching up to 20.

‘15 or 20 years ago, that wasn't the case at all,’ Jimmy adds. ‘Most systems had ratings of 6-8. Programmable and smart thermostats also make a huge difference now. 20 years ago, most homes had basic analog thermostats that you had to adjust constantly.’

Of course, climate change and hotter summers are making an impact on what it takes to keep your home comfortable year-round, whilst at the same time, building materials, regulations, and user needs have changed.

‘Homes that were built in the 90s generally didn't have central AC,’ Jimmy says, ‘because it wasn't needed. Now, cooling systems are more widely needed.’

It’s why in the winter, the old heating standard is out, and new rules have come in to account for the leap in technology and insulation.

What to Shop

Keeping comfortable in rising temperatures is an ongoing challenge that often needs to be balanced with rising costs. Tackling air movement, humidity, and cooling together, alongside sealing gaps that may have appeared over winter from thermal change, provides a robust strategy for comfort without excessive energy costs.

Here are the essentials to keep your household cool and comfortable as we move towards May and warmer temperatures still.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Learn how to cool a room with fans, and sleep better with the latest and best cooling mattress toppers and pads. Having some of the best bed sheets that are moisture-wicking will also help keep you comfortable in spring.

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If cool air is leaking out of gaps in your attic, then the AC has to work harder, resulting in a higher energy bill. But HVAC pros have revealed a simple trick for better insulation as the weather continues to warm up: Weatherstripping your attic hatch.

This $7 Topiverse Weather Stripping Door Seal at Amazon is all you need to shave 15% off your cooling (and heating) costs year-round. It's a simple application that even inexperienced DIYers will be able to achieve at home, in minutes.

Here, HVAC and maintenance professionals reveal how to weatherstrip your attic hatch to reduce your energy bills.

Don't Let Cooled Air Escape Through Your Attic Hatch This Summer

According to Energy Star and EPA estimates, insulating areas of the home where treated air can leak, such as attics, can save on average 15% off your cooling costs over summer, and heating costs come winter. It's an inexpensive solution to keep energy bills low this spring and summer.

'According to the US Department of Energy, 25-40% of the energy consumed in cooling a typical home is due to air leaks, and the attic hatch is a notorious culprit,' shares Devin Henry, president of Nomadic Real Estate.

'In the summer, the hot air in the attic, reaching up to 150°F on a bad day, forces its way down into your living room and causes your air conditioner to run longer than it needs to,' he continues.

Effectively, a hatch with gaps around allows hot air to spread downward into the house, while cool air from your AC escapes upward. And in winter, it's one of the many attic tweaks you can make to spend less on heating.

'One of the largest sources of air leakage in a home is the attic, and an unsealed hatch is simply an opening in your ceiling,' says Devin, emphasizing the importance of this step before the weather heats up.

How to Do It

Daniel Cabrera, owner of Roof Direct San Antonio, explains how to weatherstrip the hatch, using minimal DIY skills and time. A simple $7.49 weatherstrip kit at Amazon will include everything you need for installation.

'First, clean the edges of the hatch frame to allow proper bonding of the adhesive tape. Then, apply self-adhesive weather stripping foam tape on the entire circumference of the hatch frame where it comes into contact,' he says.

To clean the hatch frame, you'll need to vacuum up any dust, wipe it with a damp, soapy cloth, and treat any mold if present. With this $8.90 microfiber cloth set at Walmart and this $3.88 Zep Mold & Mildew Remover at Walmart, you'll be fully set. Make sure the surface is fully dry before applying the tape.

Failing to seal the gaps around your attic hatch is a common HVAC summer mistake that will unnecessarily drive up your energy bills while the weather is warmer. If you have done this task in the past, check the existing sealant, as temperature and humidity changes can cause seal failure over time, and need to be replaced.

What to Shop

To reduce the air seepage between your attic and the rest of your home, you'll be fully set with a weatherstripping kit and a few basic cleaning tools.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, learn clever ways to reuse AC water, and the five signs it's time to replace your AC unit.

As temperatures rise, so too do air conditioning bills. And, if your windows and doors aren't sealed correctly, you might find them doing so more than usual.

While these costs are an inevitable part of warmer weather, there is one easy and affordable trick you can use to check that your AC is working as efficiently as possible – and all you need is an incense stick.

It's a simple yet effective method that can effortlessly help you to cut energy bills.

Why Drafts Are More Noticeable In Spring, and How to Spot Them

The incense stick trick is simple: Slowly pass a lit stick around window frames on a windy day. If the smoke flickers, you're losing money from failing seals. If you have one of these as part of your home fragrance favorites, then it's easy to get testing. If you don't, you can pick incense sticks very affordably from Amazon, with same-day or next-day delivery.

Josh Mitchell, HVAC Expert and Founder of AirConditionerLab, details that the main reason for new spring drafts stems from winter freeze-thaw cycles.

'Freeze-thaw cycles wear down seals faster than people expect,' he explains. 'During winter, caulk and rubber seals expand during warmer daytime temperatures and contract overnight when temperatures drop below freezing. That repeated movement creates hairline cracks that grow over time. UV exposure from winter sun also dries out sealants, making them brittle.'

'In many homes, especially those over 10 years old, I see seal breakdown within two to four seasons. By early spring, those gaps are already letting conditioned air escape.

'Even small openings around windows can increase cooling load by five to 15 percent, which is why people notice higher AC bills as soon as temperatures start rising,' or struggle to even keep a home cool in the first place.

And, as Patrick Gambel, Owner of General Heating & Air Conditioning, adds, the main issue is, 'Most homeowners don’t catch it right away, but those little openings are what lead to drafts and higher energy bills.'

How to Use the 'Incense Stick' Trick to Identify Drafts

'The incense trick works because smoke reacts to even slight air movement,' continues Josh. 'I tell homeowners to turn off ceiling fans and hold a lit incense stick about an inch away from window frames, corners, and trim. Move slowly along the edges.

'If the smoke drifts sideways or gets pulled in a direction, that’s a leak. You can also test on a calm day with the AC running, since pressure differences will still pull air through gaps. It takes about five to 10 minutes to check an entire room and gives a visual result that’s easier to spot than using your hand.'

Most importantly, catching these failed seals early prevents costly repairs, as air leaks spell moisture, mold, and mildew.

'Warm indoor air hitting a cooler window frame can condense inside the wall or around the frame,' adds Josh. 'Over time, that leads to soft wood, peeling paint, and mold.

'Once the frame starts to break down, you’re no longer looking at a seal fix. You’re looking to replace parts of the window or the entire unit, which can cost $500 to $1,200 per window. Fixing the gap early with a $10 to $20 material avoids that progression.'

Jordan Benjamin, HVAC, Plumbing Expert, and the President of Done Rite Services, agrees. 'Catching a failing seal early prevents serious damage from occurring,' he says. 'Gaps in the seal lead to moisture intrusion, which causes wood to rot, insulation to deteriorate, and frames to warp.

'These kinds of issues can be expensive to repair, and if the damage is severe, a full replacement may be needed. It’s much easier and less expensive to replace failing seals as you notice them.'

How to Eliminate Drafts

Once identified, DIY draft proofing is easy.

'For quick fixes, I recommend removable weatherstripping for windows that open and close often,' suggests Josh. Rope caulk [such as the Frost King Fingertip Rope Caulk, available at Amazon] works well for seasonal sealing and costs under $10 per pack.'

If you're not so confident with DIY, you could also go for what Scott Levene, Vice President of Levco, refers to as the 'faster, uglier way' – shrink wrap.

'Shrink-wrap works on not-so-beat-up windows, and it doesn’t require as much precision or near-craftsmanship to install as caulk sometimes can,' he explains. 'It works like a cheaper, temporary storm window, stopping leaks and creating an air pocket with an insulating effect.'

Then, for windows, a door sweep or draft stopper, available at Amazon, blocks airflow at the bottom, where most leaks happen.

'If you find wider gaps, use low-expansion foam labeled for windows and doors,' continues Josh. 'It fills the space without pushing on the frame. A single can can seal multiple windows and costs around $6 to $10.' For this, we recommend the GE Big Gaps & Cracks Insulating Foam, available at Walmart.

'For smaller cracks, acrylic latex caulk is a good option and is easier to control than foam,' he adds. And importantly, Josh warns, don't overlook your outlets and switch plates on exterior walls, or all your attempts to weatherproof your windows will be in vain.

'I’ve tested homes where those spots alone accounted for noticeable airflow,' he says. 'Foam outlet gaskets cost a few dollars and take only a few minutes to install.

'Attic access points and baseboards along exterior walls are also common leak points. When you seal several small gaps, the combined effect reduces how often your system runs and helps maintain stable indoor temperatures.'

What to Shop

Below, you can shop from a selection of expert-approved draft proofing essentials – including caulk, expanding foam, and incense sticks, which you can also use as a quick way to make your home smell nice.

Each is suitable for differing factors, such as the size gap you need to fill, so make sure to assess yours individually before deciding on which will work best for you. Some, like the shrink-to-fit window kit and door sweep, are also conveniently removable, but will work just as well to keep your home warm and trap heat in winter as they will to keep it cool and trap air conditioning this spring and summer.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Have you considered eco cooling? Discover the greenest ways to stop your home from overheating.

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At this time of year, opening the windows and feeling the air move through your home can feel vital in overcoming rising humidity and heat. But if you suffer from allergies, doing so usually brings pollen indoors. That's where the 'Rain Cooling' method comes in.

Air quality experts have revealed that you can use the 20 minutes after April showers to your advantage, to ventilate your home without exposing your indoor space to the sharp rise in pollen counts, or running up huge AC bills.

As rain pulls airborne pollen down to the ground, there's a short period after it has rained when you can safely cool your home without pushing up your pollen exposure. Pairing this 'rain cooling' technique with one of the best air purifiers will easily create a refreshing and comfortable space.

How to Use the 20-Minute Rain Cooling Method

'When it rains, airborne pollen particles are pulled down to the ground. Once pollen gets wet, it clumps together and can no longer be airborne,' shares Phil Adkins, president of Adkins & Sons.

To allow fresh air into your home without triggering allergies, open your windows for 20 minutes or so after light rain has fallen. This is when airborne pollen counts will be at their lowest.

Then, to catch any pollen particles that may have seeped in, run your air purifier for 30-60 minutes. If you don't have one, I recommend the Shark NeverChange MAX – I use it at home, and its HEPA filtration and large, 1,400 sq. ft. coverage make it ideal for clearing pollen and other spring pollutants from your home's air.

Ventilating your home does more than freshen up your space. It cools your home without relying on your AC, which, in turn, reduces your energy bills. Opening your windows after light rainfall is an effective, money-saving solution that doesn't bring allergens into your home.

The Science

The Rain Cooling technique is particularly important in April as higher temperatures and rounds of heavy rainfall result in high pollen counts for much of the US, according to AccuWeather.

But there's a caveat. If you're allergic to other pollen types, this technique could actually exacerbate symptoms.

'People who are allergic to different types of grasses should be cautious about this approach,' reports Rick Hoskins, air quality expert and CEO of FilterKing. 'Rain will actually cause allergens in the grass to disperse into the air, likely worsening their allergies.'

'Only open the windows when it’s raining if you’re 100% positive your allergies are caused by pollen. If you are allergic to grass or weeds, keep them shut and use your HVAC system,' he continues.

Eli Zimmer, CEO of Luxaire HVAC Services, elaborates, 'Rain also encourages the release of pollen from plants. The heavier it rains, the more that gets released, so following or even during a heavy rain storm, there can actually be an increase in pollen.'

'If you really struggle with allergies, I would highly recommend installing window screens that are specifically designed to filter out more allergens,' he recommends.

What to Shop

Regardless of the type of pollen you're allergic to, these solutions have either been vetted first-hand by our product testing team or recommended by air quality experts to reduce your allergy symptoms at home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Cleaning from top to bottom is a simple way of keeping pollutants under control during your spring cleaning, but having one of the best air purifiers at home will help year-round to keep your air quality high and bothersome pollutants low.

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As New York and Connecticut battle a historic blizzard, millions of people will be left looking for ways to sleep warmly and peacefully. The answer lies across the Atlantic in a Nordic tradition that's been practiced in homes across Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Norway since the 17th century.

In this traditional practice, the key isn’t just having a hot water bottle – it’s knowing where to put it. The bottle is typically placed at the foot of the bed or between the top sheet and duvet, rather than pressed directly against the body, as many of us have become accustomed to in recent years.

This warms the air pocket under the covers evenly, preventing sweat and keeping the warmth circulating around your feet and legs. Some also place it briefly under the pillow before bed to gently warm the head area. The result is a cozy, evenly heated bed that retains warmth through even the coldest nights, without overheating any single spot. It's a time-honored way to keep warm while you sleep, and you only need a hot water bottle (like this one from Amazon) to follow the tradition.

Shop the Best Hot Water Bottles

In Nordic countries, where winters are long, dark, and historically fuel-scarce, bedrooms were traditionally kept unheated to conserve firewood, making bed-warming essential rather than indulgent. This hot water bottle method likely grew out of older practices from the 1600s onward, when people used heated stones, metal warmers, or wrapped bricks to warm their chilly bedding.

Over time, Scandinavians learned that placing the heat source to warm the air trapped under layers of wool and linen, rather than the body itself, kept beds warmer for longer and avoided sweat-induced chills. Now, as this cold chill hits, it feels as important as ever. Homes & Gardens’ sleep editor, Ottilie Blackhall, agrees.

‘Sleep research shows we rest best in cooler rooms, but with a warm microclimate around the body. This Scandinavian hot water bottle method does exactly that – it warms the bed, not the air, which makes it surprisingly relevant for how we sleep today,’ Ottilie comments.

‘With an East Coast blizzard continuing to drive temperatures down, it’s a reminder that, sometimes, the time-honored methods are the best. In extreme cold, focusing warmth where the body actually needs it can improve sleep quality while reducing energy use.’

Ultimately, it’s worth us all taking a page from centuries of Scandinavian wisdom, even if you’re not caught in a blizzard. A simple hot water bottle, placed thoughtfully between the top bed sheet, can transform a freezing bedroom into a warmer sanctuary. By letting the air around your feet and legs carry the heat, you can sleep comfortably, proving that even in the harshest winters, a little tradition goes a long way.

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When temperatures plummet and winter storms sweep across the region, staying comfortable can feel like a delicate balancing act. You want to protect your family’s health and shield your home from costly damage – all without letting your energy bills spiral out of control. So what temperature is truly safe and efficient during the big freeze we’re experiencing right now, and how can you winter-proof your home to withstand the cold?

HVAC experts say there’s a 'Goldilocks' zone – not too hot, not too cold – that balances comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. Staying within this range protects vulnerable parts of your home, like pipes and unheated spaces, while reducing the risk of hidden damage to your heating system. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about keeping your home warm and protected during extreme cold.

The ‘Goldilocks’ Temperature for Health and Safety

For most homes, maintaining a steady temperature between 68 and 70°F is ideal. Kevin Goude, HVAC expert and owner of First Choice Heating & Air, explains that while 68°F is standard, poorly insulated areas or drafty windows often feel more comfortable at 70°F. This extra warmth helps protect basements and exterior-facing pipes from freezing. When preparing your home for a freeze, he also recommends prioritizing rooms with plumbing, such as kitchens and bathrooms, especially if your home has a zoned heating system.

Robert Hamerly, CEO of GreenSavers, agrees that steady warmth is key. He notes that while lower temperatures can save energy, keeping your home within 68 to 72 degrees actually reduces overall energy use. For unoccupied homes, he suggests setting the thermostat to around 50°F – cool enough to save on bills, but warm enough to protect pipes and plants.

Maintaining the best temperature for a thermostat in winter isn’t just about comfort. A 2018 WHO study found that maintaining minimum indoor temperatures is crucial for protecting elderly people, children, and individuals with chronic conditions during cold seasons.

Steady warmth also protects hidden systems, such as water heaters and HVAC ductwork, that run through unheated spaces.

Goude explains that if temperatures drop too low, condensation can form inside ducts, which can lead to ice blockages, mold growth, or reduced airflow when the freeze thaws.

How to Keep Your Home Warm on a Budget

Keeping a home above 68°F doesn’t mean cranking the heat. Simple strategies can make a big difference. Sealing gaps around windows and doors with weather stripping (Duck Brand Heavy-Duty Weatherstrip Seal at Walmart) and using thermal curtains helps trap warm air inside. Closing doors to rooms you’re not using focuses heat where you actually live. Regular ductwork maintenance ensures heat reaches every room efficiently, as blockages or missing insulation can lead to uneven heating and energy loss.

Other practical adjustments include removing vent covers, servicing your HVAC system, and maintaining your water heater. Using a smart thermostat allows you to maintain the Goldilocks zone without over- or under-heating, helping to save both energy and money during a freeze.

Keep Your Home Safe and Comfortable This Winter

Maintaining your home between 68 and 70°F during a big freeze is about more than comfort – it protects your health, your home, and your energy bills. To keep your home in the Goldilocks zone, remember these key tips:

• Seal drafts and insulate – Use weather stripping on doors and windows and thermal curtains to keep warm air in.
• Focus heating on used spaces – Close doors to unused rooms so warmth stays where you need it most.
• Maintain ductwork – Check for blockages, missing insulation, or leaks to ensure heat is distributed efficiently.
• Service your heating system – Regular HVAC and water heater maintenance keeps your system working effectively.
• Use a smart thermostat – Maintain steady temperatures without over- or under-heating, saving energy and money.

‘Keeping your home at a steady, safe temperature isn’t just about comfort – it’s about protecting your family, preserving the house itself, and avoiding hidden costs or damage that often go unnoticed,’ says Kevin Goude, HVAC expert and owner of First Choice Heating & Air. ‘A reliable, consistent warmth creates peace of mind: you know your pipes are safe, your heating system isn’t overworking, and your home is ready to weather even the coldest days.’

FAQs

How Cold Is Too Cold for a House?

For a home that’s being lived in, temperatures below 62°F are generally considered too cold, as prolonged exposure can increase the risk of cardiovascular and circulation issues. From a structural standpoint, extended periods below 50°F put your home at higher risk for problems like frozen pipes, condensation, and mold growth.

Is It Safe to Leave the Heating On All Night During Freezing Weather?

When temperatures stay below freezing for an extended period, it can be beneficial to leave the heating on a low setting overnight or program it to come on intermittently. This helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, protecting both your home and the people inside, especially vulnerable residents like the elderly and young children.

Last week, my boiler broke down on the coldest day of the year in my region so far. As temperatures plummeted, so did the heat on my radiators. I needed a solution – and fast.

Luckily, one of my kindly neighbours let me borrow their Dyson Hot+Cool™ Jet Focus Heater and Fan, available from Dyson, and it's fair to say I was more than a little impressed.

It doesn't come cheap, but it kept my home warm all day, even with my boiler out of action, and was a saving grace during my heating emergency.

This Dyson Heater Kept Me Warm During Freezing Temperatures and a Heating Outage

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Right now, where I live, heating is essential. But, during my heating outage last week, I found myself having to turn to alternative things to keep myself warm at home with a broken boiler.

Sure, layering up and putting on my slippers did make a difference, and a hot water bottle is always a welcome addition on a cold day. But, in my drafty home, I desperately needed something that could keep my house warm without turning up the heat.

And, if there was one stand-out star of the show that truly fit the bill, and made me toasty despite the heating being out, it was the Dyson Hot+Cool™ Jet Focus Heater and Fan, available at Dyson.

I've often dreamed of using and owning this particular product from Dyson, and, while I do have to return mine to my neighbour, I'm now fully sold on buying one as an investment, even with a price tag that's just shy of $500.

Almost instantly after turning it on, my open-plan living room-kitchen space was noticeably warmer. After half an hour, the whole space was evenly filled with warm air, which makes sense as the clever Air Multiplier technology amplifies airflow up to 15 times.

It also comes with a remote control to conveniently switch between 10 different settings, and you can even set a sleep timer to turn off at preset intervals, from 15 minutes to nine hours. It will also automatically switch off if it tips or gets knocked over.

Plus, the heater runs so quietly it was no distraction at all in my space, and it looks good, too, with a bladeless design that's effortlessly easy to clean.

Therefore, it's no surprise that our home tech editor, Dan Fauzi, is also enthusiastic about what I'm now deeming the best type of space heater that money can buy.

'I've tested heaters before, and one thing I absolutely love about Dyson's designs is that they understand airflow,' Dan explains. 'These heaters are expensive, but they manage to circulate air around large rooms so quickly and effectively that instantly it feels worth the spend. And as this model can also cool you down, you're investing in a stylish, high-quality device that's useful all year.'

Yes, that's right – this Dyson model will also help you to keep a home cool in summer, too, offering fast, powerful cooling and long-range projection in any room of your home, whether you need to keep a bed cool in summer, or keep a kitchen cool, for example.

So, to me, this investment is a no-brainer. I can't deny that it comes at a premium price, but as it performs as a premium product with year-round functionality, I can't argue with it either.

What to Shop

If you've experienced a broken boiler more than once, keep an eye out for these common signs that your boiler needs replacing, and the things that are working your heating system harder than necessary.

Outdated heating myths not only spike your bills for no good reason, but they won't keep your house warm or make you more comfortable this winter.

From cranking the thermostat when the temperature dips outside to closing vents in unused rooms and lowering the settings during the day, our HVAC and energy pros reveal the enduring heating rules that no longer serve modern homes and will only work against you.

Don't waste money this winter using old rules, and instead keep your house warm with wallet-friendly and planet-friendly tips from the experts.

The Outdated Heating Myths to Swap for Modern Rules, for Modern Homes

After saying goodbye to the 66° Fahrenheit rule in my home for two months, and seeing pesky window condensation disappear and my family's comfort rise without our bills spiking to match, it got me thinking about the other heating 'rules' we've inherited, which don't serve our modern homes or needs.

This is especially relevant when intensely cold weather systems, such as the Arctic air outbreak, sweep across the US.

HVAC technician and founder of Air Conditioner Lab, Josh Mitchell, says, 'A lot of old heating advice still floats around because it made sense decades ago, when homes had poor insulation, single-pane windows, and inefficient furnaces.

'But newer homes are tighter, systems are smarter, and energy use doesn’t behave the same way. Here are a few heating habits that don’t hold up anymore, and what to do instead.'

1. Setting the Thermostat and Leaving It All Day

In bygone decades, boilers coped better with steady temperature settings rather than dynamic heating. Now, modern homes across the US are largely equipped with better heating systems, as well as advanced insulation, windows, and building materials that keep heat indoors.

Josh explains, 'This heating myth came from the idea that keeping a steady temperature avoids wasting energy. It made sense with older boilers that took forever to ramp up.

'But modern systems heat faster and cycle efficiently. Leaving it at 72°F all day means you’re heating empty rooms. Use a smart thermostat and set it to lower temps when you’re sleeping or out.'

'Dropping the temperature 7-10 degrees for eight hours saves around 10 percent on your bills a year.'

I tested this myself after having a smart thermostat installed, similar to the Nest, available at Amazon last winter, and the clever technology constantly checked my indoor temperature and switched the heating on and off to maintain steady temperatures 24/7. The result was a saving of 100s of dollars over the course of winter and constant comfort.

2. Turning the Thermostat Way Up to Heat Faster

I remember watching my mother crank up the heating whenever we had a particularly cold day in our 1920s home, but I also remember my father loathing the enormous bills that came with heating that drafty old house.

Josh says nowadays, turning the heating all the way up does nothing but stress the system and waste energy.

'This one’s pure psychology,' Josh explains. 'Furnaces and heat pumps don’t blow hotter air just because you set the thermostat to 80°F. They run at the same output until the target is reached. You’ll just overshoot and waste energy. Set it to the temp you actually want and let it run.'

Blocking drafts under doors with washable stoppers and filling gaps with crackproof and weatherproof silicone, both available from Amazon, around your windows to stop drafts will actually make you feel warmer by curbing chilly air sneaking in, and hot air leaking out.

I did this myself with a doubley-drafty entryway that led straight into my open-plan living room and immediately felt the benefits. It also stopped my smart thermostat from needlessly cycling on because of the cold air near the front door, which was causing cold spots and uneven heating upstairs.

3. Closing Vents In Unused Rooms Will Save Money

This outdated heating rule only puts pressure on heating systems and creates hot and cold spots.

Josh says, 'This myth came from thinking you could “redirect” airflow where it’s needed. But closing vents increases static pressure and throws off system balance. It can even cause short cycling or duct leaks.

'A better fix is zoned heating or installing dampers to control flow properly. At the very least, leave doors open and let air circulate freely.'

Closing vents only puts extra stress on your system, leading to unnecessary repairs.

Dean Mahmoud, CEO of EcoGen America, adds, 'Many homeowners assume closing the vents of unused rooms in a house will lower their heating bills by reducing the amount of heated space. This concept came from older houses with gravity-fed furnaces or window unit heaters that could be physically isolated to save fuel.

'But modern central forced air systems use a balanced loop system and require a certain amount of airflow to function properly. Closing all of your register vents increases the static pressure in the duct system and makes the blower work extremely hard to overcome this increased resistance.

'Excess pressure will most likely cause duct leaks to increase in size or rupture, causing the paid-for heat to be blown into attics and walls instead of the living space that was intended.'

Dean reveals that his team often sees early failures in customers' blower motors and increased energy bills due to this outdated practice, rather than the intended savings they hoped for.

'For your ventilation system to breathe as intended by the manufacturer,' Dean adds, 'you need to allow all of the vents to stay open.'

4. Using Fireplaces Without Adjusting Your Heat

I recall the thrill of lighting our fireplace in our childhood home, and it was the perfect way to make our large living room feel cozy. But I also recall the absolute chill I felt, stepping out to the rest of the home, as often, the thermostat was lowered to conserve energy when it was lit.

Misusing your heating when your fireplace is in use will not help in a modern home.

Josh explains, 'People assume running a fire saves money. But traditional fireplaces often suck warm air out of your house through the chimney, especially if the central heat is on. That pulls cold air in from outside to replace it.

Ethan Heine, who has worked in the energy industry for decades and leads Sun Trek Solar, a solar power company, adds, 'Turning off the central heater while you are enjoying the fire will probably reduce how much electricity your central heater uses, but, conversely, the drawback is that fireplaces pull the warm air inside your home and dump it outside via the chimney, so any rooms opposite the one with a lit fireplace will probably see very little to no warm-up effect from the fire.'

He advises thinking of your fireplace as a means to add some extra warmth and ambiance to your home, and let your central heating system do its job to maintain a consistent temperature in all areas of your home.

Ethan adds, 'Make sure to close the damper completely after each fire to prevent the loss of warm air through the chimney.'

There are ways to get more heat from your fireplace, but always clean it regularly, as well as your chimney, to avoid a buildup of flammable natural materials that can become a fire risk.

Adding a creosote cleaning log, available from Amazon, to one in every forty fires you light in your fireplace will help break down and remove the flammable buildup.

5. Ignoring Airflow and Filter Changes

Sometimes, it's the lack of heating upkeep that can hinder your family's comfort at home over winter and in extreme cold weather snaps. Ignoring vital winter home maintenance tasks, such as cleaning your HVAC system and its components, can lead to costly damage over time.

HVAC tech Josh explains, 'Some people treat airflow like a non-issue. But blocked returns, dirty filters, and blocked radiators all reduce efficiency. If your filter is dirty, your furnace runs longer and wastes energy.

'I always tell people to check filters monthly and replace them every one to three months. Make sure vents aren’t blocked by furniture or rugs either.'

Air vents can gather dust and be prone to mold, so make sure they're on your schedule to check and clean.

Allowing moisture channels – space around furniture and between it and the walls – will reduce the risk of mold in your house by improving ventilation and reducing the spots in which mold can settle and thrive.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Outdated heating habits cost people comfort and money, with modern HVAC systems responding better to smart schedules, balanced airflow, good ventilation, and minor adjustments that match how you live day to day.

These tweaks don’t take much effort, but they stop a lot of waste and help you be more sustainable at home, whilst cutting your energy usage and costs.

As I write this, I am wearing the thickest pants I own, wool slippers, a thermal vest, and I have a heating pad across my lap.

These are just some of the emergency comforts I am swearing by right now, as we await a heating engineer to come and fix our broken boiler. It broke down over the weekend, on one of the coldest days of the year in my region.

That means no hot water or working radiators in my house. But I am not alone, as January is the peak month for boiler breakdowns due to the frigid temperatures and heightened system usage.

But there are still ways to stay warm at home all day, and in a pinch, it’ll carry you and your household through shiver-inducing conditions until your boiler is back working.

Why Do Boilers and HVAC Systems Break In January?

The extra usage of our boilers and HVAC systems over the colder months wears components faster, and can cause some to contract in extreme cold. This puts extra strain on an already-busy system, leading to faults and breakages and leaving homeowners with an emergency heating repair issue to fix.

This winter breakdown risk increases with the age of your boiler, according the the Orange County Chamber of Commerce.

Tom Orr, CEO at Northwest Exteriors, a home maintenance company, explains, 'January tests heating systems to their core, day and night, in the coldest part of the year. Continual operation exposes weak points, such as worn igniters and leaking blowers.'

Since technician demand is always highest during the coldest months, there may also be a significant delay in how quickly an engineer can come to you and fix the problem.

Tom adds, 'Calls for service are heightened during cold snaps, as marginal systems buckle around-the-clock use and demand spikes during cold waves.

'Crews respond to no-heat calls, frozen pipes, and emergency repairs. Appointment schedules are more difficult to get, and response times are higher due to the high number of urgent calls. It’s not that January is "bad" by itself; it’s simply when the stress test becomes unavoidable.'

I have indeed found this to be true with my boiler breakdown, as we have been running it constantly since November. We found that there is a four-day delay until a suitable technician can come out to us. As I am disabled and have chronic health conditions that are adversely impacted by the cold, and a sick child at home, we have been prioritized; otherwise, it would have been a five-day wait at best.

So if you are finding yourself in a similar situation, here’s what you can do to keep your house warm during the day without heating, and at night, so you can sleep well until your technician is on hand to fix what is likely a common heating problem.

1. Layer Up Your Clothing and Bedding

Putting one layer of clothing or bedding on top of another traps air in between. This will create a natural insulation space from your body heat and help you feel warmer and more comfortable.

I am currently wearing four layers of clothing on my upper body and a long hooded blanket hoody, available for fast delivery from Amazon, which is incredibly warm and comfortable without making you sweat.

Mark Carter, home maintenance expert with Homevisary, adds, 'This is the right instinct, and most people underdo it. The key is layers, not bulk. Multiple thin layers trap air between them, and that's what actually insulates you.

'Wool and fleece are better than cotton because they retain warmth even when damp from body moisture. For bedding, add blankets underneath you, not just on top. You lose a lot of heat to the mattress. And here's one people forget – cover your head. You lose significant heat through your head, and while a wool cap indoors may feel silly, it works.'

Adding a bubble faux fur throw from Wayfair, or an electric blanket and fleece bedding set (both available from Amazon Prime with fast delivery), will really help increase your comfort overnight.

2. Use Electric Heaters to Raise Ambient Temperature

An energy-saving portable electric heater, such as the Dreo Ceramic Compact Heater from Lowe's, will use electricity to pump warm air into a room. It’s not a whole-house fix, but it’s very good for raising the temperature of the area immediately around you, and won't cost too much to run. This particular one also has eight layers of safety features built in to help curb the risks of use that can arise.

Mark explains, 'Electric heaters work, but you need to be careful. Space heaters are involved in about 1,600 house fires a year, according to Consumer Product Safety Commission data.

'Never use extension cords with them and plug directly into wall outlets. Keep them three feet from anything that can burn, including curtains, bedding, and furniture. Never leave them running when you leave the room or go to sleep. Look for models with tip-over shutoff and overheat protection.'

To further avoid the risk of fires, put yours on a flat surface to avoid it tipping over, and do not leave it running whilst you’re out of the room or house. The National Fire Protection Association says most fires caused by heaters happen when they're left unattended.

The pros are that these appliances are usually lightweight and easy to carry from room to room, as your day and activities at home change, and most will have a thermostat and auto-shut off function, too.

It's better to pick a room or two to keep warm, Mark adds, so don't try to heat your whole house with them.

3. Use Electric Blankets for Zone Heating

Zone heating isn’t just about the room you’re in. You can use electric blankets to heat your body up. As someone in chronic pain, I use mine year-round to soothe my achy joints, but they’re brilliant for lying across your lap or legs, across your lower or upper back when seated, and for warming up chilled bedding before getting in at night.

I have tested many different ones, and my favorite is the Deepsoon heat pad from Amazon, which has six heat settings and can be set to run from 30-120 minutes at a time.

Mark adds a few tips for safe usage. He says, 'Electric blankets are more efficient than space heaters for keeping yourself warm because you're heating your body directly rather than heating air that then escapes.

'They're also great for sleeping, but inspect them before use and check for frayed cords, cracked plugs, or any damage. Don't fold them when they're on because that can cause overheating in the folded areas. And don't pile heavy blankets on top of an electric blanket, as that can trap heat and create a fire risk.'

4. Mind Your Internal Doors

It’s a heating myth that shutting internal doors will help keep the heat in. This was the case decades ago when inferior heating systems were used in US homes, but now, with the majority of heating systems able to work better to control overall house temperature, keeping internal doors open will help you avoid cold spots, even without your system running.

However, when your boiler is out, whether or not you should shut internal doors depends on your strategy. Mark explains, 'If you're trying to heat the whole house with whatever warmth you can generate, yes, keep doors open so air circulates.

'But if you're trying to keep one room warm with a space heater, close that door and keep the heat concentrated. Most people in a heating emergency should pick one or two rooms to live in, close those off from the rest of the house, and focus their heating efforts there.

'Any warmth generated from your body heat, cooking, and space heater will stay better in a smaller space. Think of it like camping in one room of your house.'

5. Keep Windows and Blinds Shut to Conserve Heat

Unless the sun is shining directly into a room, trap the ambient heat inside by drawing curtains and closing shutters.

I know the sensation of feeling claustrophobic if your window treatments are not open in the daytime, so in my small home office, where I am currently working, I have closed the shutters, but turned on all the lights and lamps here.

Mark adds, 'Yes, you should close everything. Windows are major heat loss points. Close your blinds, the curtains, and hang blankets over windows if you have drafty ones, as the cold will radiate right through the glass.'

He agrees on the exception to the rule, adding, 'If you have south-facing windows and it's a sunny day, you can let sunlight in during peak sun hours to get some passive solar heat, then close everything back up before the sun goes down.'

For instance, my primary bedroom is south-facing, giving me direct sunlight there till the early afternoon. You can keep north-facing rooms warm with the same principle, but usually in the late afternoon.

Finding what works for you is as important as fending off the cold when your heating has stopped working, especially if you're waiting a while for a technician. Mark Carter adds, 'If your boiler dies in January, you're competing with everyone else whose boiler also died that week. Wait times stretch out. Emergency call fees go up.

'It's just supply and demand. The technicians who are available are running from job to job all day, and they have to prioritize the most urgent cases, like elderly folks, families with infants, and houses where pipes are at risk. Everyone else waits.'

6. Plug Drafty Doors with Makeshift Blockers

Even if your HVAC repair technician is coming soon, it’s still worth investing in draft stoppers for doors, available at Amazon, and internal doors, as this will decrease your energy bills in the long run by stopping cold drafts from pushing into your home or hot air escaping out.

I have had great success stopping the cold drafts at my front door with a stick-on foam draft stopper from Amazon.

Until it arrives, you can use a makeshift draft-blocker by tucking items you already have in the gap. Mark suggests, 'Roll up towels, stuff them along the bottom of exterior doors. If you have gaps around door frames, tape over them with painter's tape or even newspaper and tape. The goal is to stop cold air infiltration. Every bit of cold air that sneaks in is heat you're losing.'

You can also use coats, throws, and blankets.

'Check around windows too, as old windows especially leak air around the frames,' Mark adds, 'Plastic sheeting taped over windows works if you have it. Some people use a shrink-wrap window insulation kit, but if you don't have one, garbage bags and tape will do in a pinch.'

We have several expert guides on draft-proofing that you may find helpful in the short and long term, which will help improve the energy efficiency of your house:

• Draft-proofing doors without ugly strips.
• Draft-proofing a living room.
• Draft-proofing a garage.
• Draft-proofing a kitchen.
• Draft-proofing a basement.
• Draft-proofing a bathroom.
• Draft-proofing a sunroom in winter.
• Draft-proofing an entryway.
• Weather-proofing windows.
• Places sneaky drafts hide in homes.

7. Use Your Oven to Cook Meals

Ovens produce a lot of heat, but don’t keep it all inside the appliance. A lot of it moves out into the surrounding space, so you can enjoy a higher ambient temperature in your kitchen, or if you have an open plan space, multiple living areas at once.

Plus, eating well will keep your energy levels up in the cold; we burn more calories and run out of ‘fuel’ quicker. You can also cook multiple tray bakes in one go, so you make the most of the electricity used to heat the oven.

Energy expert of MD Energy Advisors, Christine Ciavardini, says, 'Make the most of dinner time if your boiler is broken. After you’ve cooked and turned off your oven, leave the door open and enjoy the residual heat. It’s a great way to take the chill out of the house.'

There is an important rule there: To only open up the oven door and enjoy that extra heat once your oven is off.

Mark explains, 'Never leave the oven door open with it running. Gas ovens, especially, can build up carbon monoxide, which can kill you. What you can do safely is cook a meal, and after you're done, and the oven is off, crack the oven door open a little to let the remaining heat escape into the room.'

Always make sure you have a carbon monoxide monitor to detect spikes in the odorless and dangerous gas. The Kidde one from Amazon has a low battery indicator as well for double safety.

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You can also quickly put your windows into winter mode and insulate your outlets to stop cold air from sneaking in. Apart from the discomfort of a cold house, there are other risks to keep in mind till your system is fixed.

Tom Orr, home maintenance pro, adds, 'Frozen, burst pipes are the biggest risk, especially in exterior walls or unheated areas. Colder temperatures for longer can further harm finishes, floors, and other long-term materials from material shrinkage as well as moisture in the air.'

If the temperature in your house remains low after the boiler fix as per the outdated heating standard, to keep energy costs low, bear in mind that the heat escaping from your property can cause moisture and condensation, which increases the risk of mold.

If you always find yourself waking up with a stuffy nose, sore throat, and dry mouth in winter, you are not alone. It isn't always seasonal germs; it is likely to be caused by dry air in your home, and especially your bedroom/

That trio of uncomfortable symptoms is why winter air can quietly sabotage your sleep. Too little moisture in the air can irritate airways and skin, which is why HVAC experts say maintaining the right humidity level is just as important as setting the correct thermostat temperature.

This is the best humidity level to sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed in winter.

The Best Humidity for Sleep in Winter

Cold air holds significantly less moisture than warm air, which is why your house feels so dry in winter. While heating your home can help to alleviate some of the symptoms throughout the day, many of us turn our heating off overnight or lower the thermostat to help cut energy bills or avoid waking up sweating. The result is dry air irritating our noses and throats for around eight hours, night after night.

For a comfortable night's sleep in winter, you want to aim for a relative humidity of between 40-50%, explains Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and owner of Air Conditioner Lab, with the ideal humidity for a home generally being between 30-50%. Anything lower can irritate, while anything higher will make it more difficult to prevent mold.

Josh explains, 'Dry winter air pulls moisture from everything. Skin, bedding, and even hardwood floors shrink and creak. The biggest sleep issue I see is nasal drying. Once the sinuses dry out, people wake up congested or with mild nosebleeds. Some even snore more because of swollen nasal tissue.' This is most prevalent in humidity below 30%.

'With forced-air heating running most of the night, I’ve seen the humidity fall by 10 to 15 percent while we sleep,' he shares. 'My kids used to wake up with dry noses and mild congestion before I started tracking and balancing it better.'

Beyond mild discomfort, Dr. Chelsie Rohrscheib, head sleep expert and neuroscientist at Wesper, adds that poor sleep quality related to dry air can also 'increase sleep fragmentation, insomnia, and worsening symptoms of sleep disorders like sleep apnea.

'Additionally, dry airways increase the risk for viral and bacterial illnesses of the upper respiratory system, which can further impact sleep quality,' she adds.

How to Maintain the Best Nightime Bedroom Humidity in Winter

So, how do you balance the perfect thermostat setting for sleep with the right humidity without creating a breeding ground for mold?

The simplest answer is sleeping with a humidifier on, Josh says. 'I use a cool mist ultrasonic humidifier [such as the Dero Humidifier from Amazon] and a $12 digital hygrometer [available at Target] to keep track.

'I run it for about eight hours each night, filling the tank before bed. If the humidity climbs above 50 to 55 percent, I scale it back or shock-ventilate the room for five minutes in the morning. That helps prevent condensation on windows or mold near cold corners.'

In a pinch, you can also sleep with your bedroom door closed to help trap moisture overnight. Just be sure to ventilate the room and air out your bedding in the morning to help get rid of musty bedroom odors.

You can also invest in a Karcher window vacuum from QVC to beat window condensation caused by elevated heat loss on cold surfaces in winter. This can prevent pooling water from causing mold around your window frames.

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Does the cold winter air leave you shivering? There are plenty of ways to keep warm in bed in winter that won't have you waking up in a tangle of sheets.

Plus, turn up your thermostat to the new heating standard meant for modern homes and HVAC systems. It will banish window condensation, keep your household comfortable, and surprisingly, won't spike up your bills. We've tried it, and it really works.

As the bitter winter weather starts to bite and temperatures outside plummet further, it’s natural to want to crank your thermostat up even higher to keep up. In the past, this is exactly what I have done.

But HVAC pros warn this outdated heating myth is actually spiking your bills for no gain, and in fact, only wasting energy. That's why I've stopped adjusting my smart thermostat and letting my HVAC system work in tandem with it as it should. We've been exceptionally comfortable for the last six weeks as a result.

Here, experts debunk the idea that dialling the thermostat up when it suddenly gets even colder outside will better keep your house warm all day, and reveal what to do instead to balance comfort and energy costs.

Why You Shouldn’t Crank the Thermostat Up When It Gets Colder Outside

Caleb Caviness, manager of AryCo, provides HVAC, electrical, and plumbing services and often warns his clients about outdated heating rules, as they can potentially destroy parts or a whole system.

One myth, Caleb explains, is that you need to increase the thermostat setting at home because it’s suddenly colder. He says, ‘Most people will turn the heat up when it gets colder than it usually is outside. The reason why this might not be a good idea is that in some areas, such as North Texas, most homes use heat pumps, which are good for slow, sustained heating.

‘When you increase the thermostat by more than 2-3 degrees, the system triggers an auxiliary heat system, which usually consists of heat strips. These strips are essentially a giant toaster for your attic, and they use 3-4 times more electricity than the pump and cost you hundreds on your electricity bill.’

Instead, Caleb advises that you pick a temperature for your thermostat and leave it at that at all times. He adds, ‘Your HVAC system will adjust accordingly if the outside temperature drops below the usual outside.’

Avoiding unnecessary energy waste is better for the planet, too, and will help you be more sustainable at home.

Why Steady Temperatures Work, Even When Temperatures Drop Outside

Keeping your home at an ambient and comfortable temperature, such as the new heating standard of 68-70° Fahrenheit, around the clock uses less energy overall than a lower one. This is because modern homes with good insulation types are adept at keeping the heat in and drafts out, resulting in the JVAC system needing shorter run cycles.

I tested the new heating standard, which is recommended by the World Health Organisation to avoid respiratory illnesses in winter, in my home for the last six weeks and found that my bills have stayed the same, despite the temperatures plummeting outside over the last week.

Now it is snowing where I live, and my smart thermostat, which saves me money and my family’s comfort indoors, hasn’t budged. The only tweak we have had to make to sleep better since setting my smart thermostat up from the outdated 66°F heating rule is to dial down the radiators in our bedroom from a maximum setting of six, down to two.

This has stopped our upper floors from overheating and disrupting our sleep, whilst also limiting how much hot water our HVAC system needs to pump through the upstairs radiators.

This one change has offset any rise in bills we might have expected, even through a recent snowstorm that otherwise would have chilled us to the core.

Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and founder of Air Conditioner Lab adds, ‘There are a lot of heating “rules” people still follow that made sense years ago but don’t really work for modern homes, especially with current energy costs.

'Turning the thermostat way up to heat the house faster is still very common, but it doesn’t warm the house any quicker and usually just wastes energy.'

In conclusion, keeping your home warm doesn’t have to cause your bills to spike, and you certainly don’t have to turn up the dial just because it is now colder outside in January than in most other months of the year.

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Staying warm in cold snaps is just one part of the bigger picture for winter fuel needs.

Prepping your home for an emergency, snowstorm, or power cut could prove to be a lifesaver in an emergency, as well as knowing how to heat your home in an outage.

With snow weather warnings sweeping across the US, it's estimated that over 22,000,000* people are currently under winter weather alerts. So, how do home experts prepare for snowy weather?

Here, they share their top tips on preparing your home for a snowstorm, from draining and disconnecting outdoor hoses to opening cabinets and attic doors.

The 3 Rules Home Experts Always Follow During Snow Weather Warnings

*According to the CNN Winter Weather Warnings Advisories Tracker.

1. Drain and Disconnect Any Outdoor Hoses

The one rule that Josh Mitchell, HVAC expert and founder of AirConditionerLab, always follows when snow is in the forecast has to do with maintaining a garden hose and stopping pipes from freezing.

'I drain and disconnect any outdoor hoses,' he shares. 'If you leave a garden hose attached, the water in the pipe can freeze right behind the spigot, causing it to burst.

'You won’t notice until it thaws, and by then, you might have water running down the inside of your wall. It takes less than a minute to do and avoids hundreds of dollars in drywall and plumbing repairs.'

To do so yourself, Josh recommends using a solid brass hose splitter with shutoff valves, such as a Garden Hose Splitter available at Amazon, which lets you turn off water easily, without having to crawl behind anything or reach through landscaping.

2. Open Cabinets and Attic Doors to Allow Pipes to Stay Warm

Next, Travis Hargrave from Hargrave's Plumbing says that the one rule he always follows during snow weather warnings is opening cabinets – a clever way to keep kitchens warm without heating – and attic doors.

'Letting warm air into cabinets and attics offers more thermal protection to at-risk plumbing piping,' he explains. 'To follow yourself, first we have homeowners open their cabinets to allow warm interior air to heat their pipes.

'Once completed, we suggest opening your attic access slightly. This helps to protect any piping in your attic.'

For further protection, you should also insulate pipes in your attic space. Using foam pipe covers, available at Amazon, is the quickest and easiest way to do so. It's also advisable to insulate any crawl spaces, too.

3. Check Vents for Obstructions

Finally, says Eli Zimmer, CEO of Luxaire HVAC Services, the one rule he always follows when there are snowy weather warnings is checking all of his vents, as neglecting to do so is a home maintenance mistake never to make in winter.

'I literally just go around to all of my vents in each room and check each one,' he advises. 'I want to make sure that every single vent in my home is open and not obstructed.

'Even if you don’t mean to, sometimes things like shoes, or blankets, or pillows can accidentally get pushed or somehow find their way over to the top of a floor vent, blocking that warm air flow.

'Making sure that every single vent is open and nothing is blocking the warm air coming out is crucial for not just keeping the home comfortable but also making sure your heating system doesn’t have to work extra hard to keep things at the temperature you’ve set since there’s an obstruction.'

Therefore, this simple task will also help to cut energy bills, by avoiding any heating system mistakes.

Shop Our Snow Weather Warning Insulating Essentials

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

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'These are five-minute tasks that stop way bigger problems,' says Josh. 'People skip them because they don’t seem urgent, but they quickly become expensive when ignored.'

It's also vital to avoid these heating mistakes making your house colder, and know how often you should shovel during a snow storm.

Sleep experts often recommend a cooler bedroom for better sleep, but in the dead of winter, there is such a thing as too cool for comfort.

This begs the question: Should you leave your heating on overnight when it's very cold outside in January?

According to HVAC experts and health professionals, there are some key benefits to keeping a home warm all day and turning up the heat even when you're asleep.

Should You Leave Your Heating On Overnight in January?

The short answer is yes, you should leave your heating on overnight in freezing weather.

Eli Zimmer, CEO, Luxaire HVAC Services, explains, 'A rule you should never follow is turning your heating system off completely at night. The idea behind this is that when you are sleeping, you don’t need temperatures to be as warm, plus you can save money.

'Those things are true, and you can accomplish them – but you shouldn’t turn off your heater completely at night to do so. This was more common back in the early-mid 20th century because central heating wasn’t as efficient as heating systems are today.'

While the perfect thermostat setting for better sleep is usually on the cooler end, Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and owner of Air Conditioner Lab, explains, 'When it drops below 20° Fahrenheit outside, I tell people to leave the heat on overnight. Not just for comfort, but to avoid damage and stress on the system.'

Even if you are tucked up snug in bed using the hotel method to stay warm, allowing your property to become too cold can result in frozen pipes, dampness, and mold.

'Even if you're used to turning down the heat at night, you still want the indoor temperature to stay above 65°F,' Josh advises. 'For houses with older windows or plumbing along exterior walls, going below that invites frozen pipes. I've repaired frozen copper lines in kitchens where overnight temps inside hit the low 50s. Those repairs cost hundreds.'

Although heating just the bed and not the whole house is one way to cut energy bills at a particularly expensive time of the year, Josh explains that the cost of potential repairs is a far scarier prospect than the small increase in running costs.

'Running the heat overnight at 66°F tends to use only about five to seven percent more energy than turning it off completely. But the tradeoff is worth it,' he says. 'The system does not need to work overtime to reheat the entire house in the morning, which can add 30 to 45 minutes of runtime on colder days. That’s when the extra wear and tear builds up.'

To help lower heating costs in winter, Josh suggests setting your nightly thermostat two to four degrees lower than your daily temperature. 'In homes with babies, the elderly, or anyone with breathing issues, I keep it at 68°F at the lowest. At night, your body temperature drops, and colder rooms can disrupt sleep or trigger wheezing for those who are sensitive,' he adds.

The World Health Organization advises the new heating standard of 68-70°F in the winter to reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses. It also helps reduce the winter risks to the elderly, infants, and chronically ill.

When our Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden, recently tested the new heating standard in her home for six weeks, she found illness frequency and duration of her household reduced, window condensation disappeared, and energy bills did not rise, despite the heating running overnight. This was because the heating cycles are shorter in a warmer house, and she had to also turn the bedrooms' radiators down, which meant less hot water was used.

If you are concerned about running the heating unnecessarily, you can invest in a smart thermostat, such as the Honeywell Home Smart Thermostat from Best Buy. These devices will turn the heating on only when your home drops below a set temperature, helping you to heat your home only when it needs it, thereby preventing energy wastage.

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Maintaining your heating is one of the most vital parts of successfully winterizing your home.

To conclude, Josh warns, 'Turning the heat off completely during cold snaps isn't worth the risk. You lose more by reheating cold drywall, floors, and air than you save. It's not just about the air temperature. It's about the whole house structure needing to warm back up again.'

I live in a very old, poorly insulated home, which is a nightmare to heat. This is only made worse by the fact that the radiators are so spread apart that there are several cold spots, especially in my open-plan living room, which always leaves me shivering.

Tired of having to wear six layers indoors every winter, I finally turned to HVAC professionals for the fix. Their suggestion? Improving airflow – the very opposite of what I had been trying to keep heat in.

This is why boosting air flow can actually help to make heating more efficient, rather than hinder it, and how to make the most difference, even in a rented home.

How I Evened Out the Temperature in My Drafty Home

For the longest time, I have closed all the internal doors and blocked off spaces in an attempt to keep heat inside the rooms I was using most, such as my living room and bedroom. However, according to Josh Leclair, HVAC expert, master electrician, and owner of Village Home Services, this is the exact opposite of what I needed, and is actually one of the many things making your heating system work harder.

He explains, ‘Uneven heating usually comes down to airflow problems, duct limitations, drafts, or thermostat placement. When airflow is weak because vents are blocked, filters are dirty, or ducts run long distances, distant rooms warm up more slowly.

'Leaky ducts or drafty windows and doors can also make certain rooms feel colder than others. Warm air naturally rises, so upper floors often run hotter while lower rooms stay cool, and thermostats placed in poor locations can misread the actual temperature in the home.’

Josh suggests that the best place to start is with simple airflow fixes, for which there are a few options. ‘If you are a renter, these are fixes that you can probably do without getting the property owner involved,’ he adds.

• Open doors: JJ Gomez, of Cool Kids AC, suggests, ‘When interior doors close, it traps air. Warm air will be trapped in one room, while cold air is trapped in the room next door. If you need privacy, keep the door cracked a few inches so air can still get around.’
• Unblock heating: Whether you have heat vents or radiators, the first task should always be to clear the area immediately around them to allow heat to escape into the room more easily – moving any furniture, avoiding curtains hanging over radiators by switching thermal blinds from Wayfair, and opening vent covers all help. This free trick makes radiators heat up faster, and ensures that your vents aren’t overworking, ramping up energy bills with little effect.
• Switch thermostats from auto, to on: For forced air HVAC systems, Brian White, commercial president at Accurate Heating, Cooling & Plumbing suggest switching your thermostat fan from auto to on can, ‘Help circulate warm air more evenly throughout the home and will result in the blower on your unit to run continuously, mixing the air more effectively, which will help even out the temperature differences between rooms and floors.’
• Run ceiling fans: You may think of your ceiling fan as exclusively for use in summer; however, just as there is a best fan direction to cool a room, you can use your fan running on low clockwise to push warm air back down into your room, Josh explains.
• Use plug-in fans: Finally, Josh says, ‘If cold rooms persist, register booster fans are a practical upgrade that requires no permanent changes. These small plug-in fans sit on top of your existing vents and actively pull warm air through ducts that struggle to deliver enough airflow. Popular models like the AC Infinity AIRTAP [from Amazon], Suncourt Equalizer [at Amazon], or SmartCocoon boosters [from Lowe’s] are easy to install, quiet, and typically include built-in sensors or speed controls. They work by reducing stagnant air in long or undersized duct runs and increasing the volume of warm air entering the room. They are not a full system fix, but they can noticeably improve comfort in the most stubborn rooms.’ For radiator systems like mine, you can also find smart radiator fans from Amazon to push warmed air around your room.

When to Call an Expert

While these renter-friendly fixes are ideal for cutting energy bills and improving efficiency, there are some instances where you may need to call the pros to help eliminate hot and cold spots in your home.

Josh warns, ‘When none of the easy solutions solve the problem, the issue may be more complex. An HVAC professional can test and balance the duct system, seal leaks, or improve return air paths, which often has a dramatic impact. Sometimes the true culprit is poor insulation or major heat loss, which a landlord may need to address. In rare cases, long-term fixes like zoning systems may be needed.’

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There are some common heating mistakes that make your house colder that you should address to help keep a home warm all day, too, or your boosting efforts won’t make a difference.

I spoke with HVAC professionals in November about how the 66°Fahrenheit heating standard is outdated, and why raising the thermostat to 68-70°F this winter will protect your home, health, and the planet in 2026 and beyond.

Since I like to put my money where my mouth is, I’ve been testing the updated advice from the World Health Organization in my own home, raising the thermostat from our previous constant temperature of 66°F to 70°F for the last five weeks. The results have been excellent, with my family consistently more comfortable, no more condensation on windows, and crucially, my bills have surprisingly stayed the same.

The new heating standard is a great way to not only stay warm all day, but also reduce the risk of illness and discomfort as temperatures continue to plummet through the grip of bitter winter. Up-to-date expert insights reveal that keeping your home a little warmer is not only healthier for its occupants but also means lower energy use overall.

The Changes I’ve Experienced at Home Since Turning the Heating Up

First, it’s important to note why the 66°F heating standard came to be. It began in the 1970s when there was an energy crisis, and the population was expected to help reduce the strain by turning thermostats down to 66°F.

HVAC pro Josh Mitchell, founder of Air Conditioner Lab explains, ‘That old 66°F guideline came out of the 1970s energy crisis. Energy costs were rising fast, so governments pushed for lower indoor temperatures to reduce demand. At the time, homes had weaker insulation, single-pane windows, and lots of air leakage. Comfort wasn’t the goal: Conservation was. The problem is that advice never evolved, even though buildings and heating systems did.’

Building materials and techniques were nowhere near as advanced as they are now, so all that happened at 66°F in the ‘70s was heat escaping through the walls, roof, and windows, wasting energy across the country and shortening supply further.

Now there are all different types of insulations, which are very effective, as well as improved building standards to make sure homes retain heat, or stay cool (both run on the same principles: Excellent insulation) all year round.

This means if you heat your home to the temperature the World Health Organization and many other health studies have proven to be better for your health and the planet, you will retain a constant, comfortable temperature indoors using less energy overall, and be less prone to illness.

Staying healthier is easier when your home is between 68-70°F, as low indoor temperatures impact how well the tiny cilia (hair-like structures) in your nose and lungs work, and these are vital in filtering out viruses and bacteria.

Multiple European studies, including a Cold Homes Public Health Review in Wales, UK, found homes heated to less than 64°F came with raised health risks, whilst the Marmot Review on fuel poverty found that it tripled the risk of illnesses such as respiratory infections in winter. This was particularly true for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, ill, and young.

HVAC expert Josh adds, ‘The World Health Organization now recommends a minimum temperature of 68°F for older adults and people with chronic illness. Studies have linked homes kept at or below 66°F with higher respiratory issues and more winter mold growth, especially in vulnerable households.’

I gave the new temperature standard of 70°F a try in my home for the last five weeks, and found that it brought a multitude of benefits. Here’s what I’ve learned and why I implore you to give the new heating standard a go. I'll definitely be sticking with it this winter and beyond.

1. My Family Has Felt More Comfortable Than Ever This Winter

After talking to HVAC pros and writing about the new home heating temperature standard in November, I immediately turned our smart thermostat up. Previously, I ran the heating constantly at 66°F because I worried about mold and high energy costs.

However, multiple newer studies, including the Marmot Review, have found that lower home temperatures leave people more vulnerable to illness, especially if they are already health-compromised, young, or elderly, prompting experts to warn that higher indoor temperatures are better for our wellbeing.

I fall into one of those categories as I am chronically ill, with a multitude of progressive illnesses that leave me in pain, limit my mobility, and wreak havoc on my immune and nervous system.

Since turning the temperature up, I have found it much easier to regulate my temperature, which is a daily battle otherwise due to my disautonomia (that is, dysfunction of your autonomic nervous system, which controls things you don’t think about, such as your body temperature, breathing, and more).

My daughter, who often picks up every virus going around at school, has been far less ill this December than in any other of her nine years of life. Last winter, her school attendance was low, at around 65% due to constant illnesses, and this winter, it’s been 95%. Whatever viruses my daughter did pick up this winter were passed in a couple of days rather than taking up to 10 days.

This is a correlation, of course, but it is quite coincidental timing, isn’t it? This is especially important with the very virulent strain of flu going around, and US cases rising by 25% in the last week alone. We have also been sleeping comfortably and no longer huddle under fluffy throws in the living room in the evenings to stay warm.

There’s been a marked and significant improvement in our comfort that cannot be overstated.

HVAC pro Josh adds, ‘69-70°F is where most people actually feel comfortable. In homes I’ve worked in, once the thermostat moves from 66°F to around 69°F, complaints about feeling cold usually stop. That small change matters more than people expect, especially for anyone sitting still for long periods.’

My husband and I both work from home in our small home office, and that extra comfort with boosted heating at home has meant my fingers are no longer cold and difficult to type with throughout the day.

2. My Windows Are No Longer Covered in Condensation Every Morning

Previously, I had to wipe off condensation from our bedroom windows every morning. If we were air-drying laundry overnight in the living room or kitchen, the windows there were covered in condensation, too. It didn’t take too much time to deal with, as I used microfiber cloths and shock ventilation techniques, but still, it was a hassle every morning, and crucial to prevent mold.

Since turning the temperature up to test the new heating standard, the condensation on our windows has disappeared.

HVAC pro Josh Mitchell explains, ‘At lower temps, indoor humidity hits the dew point faster on cold glass. In testing I’ve done, raising the indoor temperature from 66°F to 70°F reduced morning window condensation by roughly 50-60%. Less moisture on windows also means less mold risk around frames, curtains, and nearby walls.’

You can use an affordable hygrometer from Walmart to keep an eye on your home's indoor humidity. The ideal humidity for a house is 30-50%.

Our Bills Have Not Risen Despite the New Heating Standard

Our newly built three-bed semi-detached house is all electric, and our bills have not budged from the usual $240 I pay monthly. I think we’re a particularly good example of why the previous heating standard really is outdated now, and the new heating standard should be between 68°F–70°F in winter.

Our walls and roof have excellent, high-tech insulation, meaning whatever heat is circulated in our home stays in our home. We also have well-sealed and fitted windows, so there are no rogue drafts there. I took care of the underdoor draft from our front door, meaning the comfortable 70°F has been very easy to maintain.

Josh says, ‘Your energy bill staying flat lines up with what I see. In all‑electric homes, each degree of heat usually adds around two to three percent in energy use. But when insulation and air sealing are decent, higher set points often lead to shorter heating runtimes and fewer recovery cycles. That offsets the increase. The system doesn’t have to fight temperature swings all day.’

I will add that in our bedrooms, we have felt a little hot overnight, so we've turned down the radiators from full blast to just 2/6.

Josh confirms this definitely saves on energy costs, adding, ‘Turning bedroom radiators down from 6 to 2 absolutely saves energy. It limits water flow, prevents overheating in small rooms, and lowers return temperatures. Bedrooms often hold heat overnight from bedding and body heat, so running radiators full blast there is wasted output.’

Ventilating the house and refreshing our air has been much easier and less impactful, too. Before, when I did shock ventilation for five minutes to refresh the air somewhat, the room felt positively cold afterwards for a number of hours.

Now, I am able to open windows or the door to the backyard for 10 minutes without the entire house feeling like an ice cube.

Josh adds, ‘Ventilating is easier when starting at 70°F instead of 66°F. This means you can open windows for 10 minutes without dumping the whole-house temperature. That clears cooking smells, moisture, and stale air without forcing long heating recovery cycles.’

This is better for your home, wallet, and the planet.

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As Josh sums up, ‘Most people stick to the old rules, thinking they’re saving money, but that’s often not the case with modern heating systems.’

I’ve tested the new heating standard, and it really is beneficial for your home, health, and the planet. You can also implement other tweaks to make winter more comfortable, including moving your bed a few inches to feel warmer as you sleep.

If your radiators clank, your furnace hums, or your vents rattle when the heat kicks in – you shouldn’t just grin and bear it. Noisy heating systems are more than just annoying; they can be a sign of inefficiency or worn parts that make your system work harder and cost you more in the long run.

Luckily, there are five simple fixes that HVAC experts recommend you try to easily restore peace and keep systems running smoothly.

Here’s how the pros silence heating systems for good so you can stay warm without the racket, and make heating more efficient.

How to Fix Noisy Heating Yourself

Before you can silence your heating system and cut energy bills, you need to work out why your home heating is making noise in the first place.

According to our HVAC pros, five common sounds might keep you up at night – this is how to fix each for a quieter, warmer night’s sleep.

1. Whistling HVAC Vents

Whistling or hissing from HVAC vents is one of the most common noise complaints, and can usually be explained by a blocked vent or duct, according to Tim Alagushov, COO of IRBIS Air, Plumbing & Electrical.

Tim says, ‘Check and ensure that all your vents and registers are open and not blocked by furniture, drapes, holiday decor, or blankets. Also, check that your air filter is clean. If everything appears to be in order after these DIY checks, and you continue to hear the hissing or whistling sound, contact your HVAC provider.’

This vacuum hose attachment and dryer brush, from Walmart, can also help you to clean dust and debris from your heating vents to improve efficiency, remove blocks, and reduce burning smells.

2. Rumbling Furnaces

If the noise is coming from your furnace or boiler, it may be a build-up of sediment or scale on your heat exchanger, explains David Miloshev, appliance tech, licensed electrician, and HVAC expert at Fantastic Services.

He says, ‘Over time, minerals in water deposit on the heating surfaces. This causes a rumble or kettle-like boiling noise. In this situation, you can’t do much without tools, and it is usually a sign to call the pros, but you can help to reduce the strain in the system yourself in the meantime.

'Lower the system temperature slightly. If you’re familiar with system drains, you can drain a small amount of water from the boiler to flush the sediment. However, only do this if you’re confident and can safely shut off the boiler. Full descaling is a professional job and can wait until spring if the heating is still effective.’

3. Rattling Ductwork

In the case of rattling ductwork in your HVAC system, David continues, ‘The cause is usually loose sheet metal or fasteners vibrating when air moves through. This is often because of age or expansion. Locate the vibrating section and apply metal HVAC tape [from Lowe’s], but not regular duct tape, to stiffen or seal seams.’

Banging might also occur as the ducts heat, the metal contracting when cold and expanding as it comes into contact with warm air. This is normal, but Davic suggests you can limit the noise by ‘insulating the outside of the duct with adhesive-backed duct insulation [also available at Lowe’s] to reduce movement noise.’

It might also be worth checking that the heat vent cover is secure, Kevin Goude, owner of First Choice HVAC, adds. ‘Start by removing the vent grille, tighten any loose screws, and preferably add a strip of foam tape or weatherstripping [available from Walmart] along the edge to cushion the metal and stop the vibration completely.’ It helps to have a multi-head screwdriver, available at Walmart, on hand, too, for quick DIY fixes like this.

4. Gurgling Radiators

If your radiator system is gurgling or bubbling, there is likely trapped air in the system. Luckily, Scott Levene, VP at Levco, explains, ‘Bleeding radiators is simple and releases the trapped air to stop the noise and improve efficiency.

'You can do this by turning off the heating and waiting for it to cool down. Place the towel and bowl under the bleed valve, then insert the radiator key [spares are available at Walmart] and turn it counterclockwise. A hissing sound indicates that air is escaping, so monitor the water flow and ensure it is steady before turning the key back clockwise.’

5. Banging Radiators

If your radiators are banging or knocking, on the other hand, Kevin warns that it may be a pressure issue.

He explains, 'Most homes with hot-water radiators have a pressure gauge near the boiler. When it’s cold, it should sit around 12 to 15 psi – if it’s higher, let a little water out through a radiator valve, but if it’s low, top it up using the filling loop.

‘You should always let the system cool first before checking or adjusting the pressure,’ he adds. ‘When the heating is running, the pressure naturally rises as the water expands, so readings won’t be accurate.’

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Meet the Experts

There are several other things making your heating system work harder, too, that you should address asap to save money at home.

During winter, it's understandable that a desire for cozy, comfortable nights might tempt you to crank up your thermostat. However, according to our HVAC pros, the perfect temperature for better sleep is likely lower than you think.

In fact, between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit is the sweet spot, with this setting also helping to lower your energy bills at the same time.

Here, our HVAC pros share everything you need to know about the ideal room temperature for serene sleep and savvy savings.

The Perfect Thermostat Setting for Better Sleep

While designing a bedroom for better sleep, the temperature to set your thermostat to might not be your first consideration. But, explain our HVAC pros, get it right, and you'll likely find yourself sleeping better, quickly.

Josh Mitchell, HVAC expert and founder of AirConditionerLab, advises, 'I've found 65 to 70°F is the best range for most people to sleep well. Your core body temperature starts to drop about an hour before sleep. If your room stays too warm, it interferes with that cooling process and makes it harder to reach deeper sleep stages like REM and slow-wave sleep.

'Studies from the National Institutes of Health and the Sleep Foundation both point to 66-68°F as the range with the fewest sleep interruptions. In sleep clinics, 65-67°F is common.'

Fatemah Farahan, a licensed psychotherapist, founder of Farahan therapy
& Associates, and the author of Wired For Happiness, available at Amazon, agrees that, when it comes to sleep, cool, fresh air can help, especially as lower temperatures support the natural drop in body temperature that occurs with sleep.

'Ideal bedroom temps are around 60-67°F – think brisk but cozy,' she says. 'That sweet spot encourages our bodies to settle into the deeper, restorative sleep phases. Plus, fresh air can help reduce stuffiness, which benefits respiratory health and can improve overall sleep quality.'

How to Achieve the Ideal Room Temperature for Sleep

So, to hit this ideal range and avoid any thermostat mistakes, Josh recommends turning your thermostat down 30 to 45 minutes before bed.

'That gives your system time to adjust without blasting cold air as you're falling asleep,' he explains. 'With smart thermostats, you can also schedule it to warm back up 20 minutes before wake-up so you're not stepping into a freezing room. That balance improves sleep and prevents overheating during long recovery cycles overnight.'

And, as Nick Barber, co-founder at Utilities Now, adds, according to the Department of Energy, this can actually help to cut energy bills, too, saving as much as 10 percent annually on your heating bill. 'In the evenings, reducing the temperature right before bedtime not only conserves energy but can help you sleep more soundly as well,' he assures.

In addition to setting your thermostat, Josh also suggests moving your bed placement to stay warm at night, away from any exterior walls or windows, and using thermal blackout curtains and plastic window insulation film, such as the Frost King Plastic Shrink Film Indoor Window Insulator Kit available at Walmart.

'Both help reduce heat loss by around 10 to 15 percent overnight, based on testing I've done with blower doors and thermal cameras,' he says. 'If you want to stay warm without raising the air temperature, I suggest heated mattress pads over electric blankets. They're safer in the long term and more efficient because the heat is trapped beneath your body.

'I've measured a 3°F drop in room temperature when switching from full-room heating to just a mattress pad, with no loss of comfort. It's a simple way to cut energy use while still sleeping warm.'

And, while Fatemeh is a big advocate for opening windows in winter, and sleeping with your bedroom door open, and windows open, she adds that, if it gets down to freezing, it's best to keep the window shut.

'If room temps dip below that ideal range, our bodies work to stay warm, which can disrupt our ability to fall into deep, restful sleep,' she explains. 'Waking up shivering isn’t exactly a recipe for a great night’s rest. Not to mention, chilly air can be irritating for those with asthma or allergies.'

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Meet the Experts

If you're still hot, should you sleep with the fan on overnight? Our experts say yes, you can, but it's worth knowing the risks before you do.

After three winters in my home, I have noticed consistent cold spots around it. My home office, in particular, is always freezing even when the rest of the house feels cozy.

Tired of typing with frozen fingers, I reached out to HVAC experts as a last-ditch effort to find a quick fix to eliminate hot and cold spots in my home – and the answer was surprisingly simple. Turning other radiators down can force a slow radiator to heat up more quickly.

It is the simple trick that requires next to no plumbing experience, but the pros warn that it could be a sign of deeper issues with your heating system. Here’s what they want us to know.

This Simple Radiator Trick Solves Cold Spots Instantly

There are a few free tricks to make radiators heat up faster, but turning other radiators down and the slower radiator up is one of the most effective, and is a great short-term solution for making heating more efficient and keeping a home warm without turning up the heat in the dead of already expensive winters.

Michael Zohouri, a retrofit and home improvement specialist, founder of Pyramid Eco, explains, ‘Turning the other radiators down reduces the demand on the system and helps push more hot water to the radiator that’s lagging. It’s a useful way to test if the radiator is being starved of heat because of how the system’s set up.’

More often than not, radiators will have a valve on one end of the radiator, making turning them up and down simple. Once the slow radiator has heated up and the room is warm enough, you can return the other radiators around the house to their normal levels.

Having some digital home thermometers from Walmart can help you to keep tabs on the air temperature across rooms, to help you achieve a better balance.

Balancing the System

That being said, having to do this often could be a sign that your heating system is unbalanced and your furnace needs maintenance.

Michael explains, ‘If you have to do this often, it’s usually a sign the system isn’t balanced properly. Most heating systems send more hot water to the radiators closest to the boiler, which means the ones further away can take longer to warm up.

'You balance your system by adjusting the lockshield valves so each radiator gets the right amount of flow. It takes a bit of time to get right, but once it’s done, all your radiators should heat more evenly.’

For this task, you will likely want to call a pro to ensure the system is balanced and functioning correctly. This can stop your heating system from working harder, cutting energy bills, and saving you money at home.

Beyond this, you might find bleeding a radiator can help, adds Eli Zimmer, CEO at Luxaire HVAC Services. ‘More often than not, that helps solve the problem because it gets rid of air pockets, which can be what is restricting that hot water flow.

'Start by just bleeding the radiator and running things as normal. If it’s still taking a while, then try the hack.’

You can find a multi-head radiator bleeding key at Amazon, to make this essential DIY skill every homeowner should know, easier.

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Meet the Experts

Trying these basic tasks is a great way to keep a home warm all day without having to call out a plumber for emergency repairs at the busiest time of the year. If these tricks do not work, however, it is always best to consult an expert to avoid damage to essential systems.

A fireplace is the ultimate cozy addition to a home, but all too often, some of that precious heat disappears up the chimney.

Luckily, home-heating experts say there are six quick tweaks you can make right now that will dramatically improve how much warmth your fireplace actually delivers inside your home. From simple airflow changes to small add-ons, these fixes can help to keep the heat where you need it most.

These are the best ways to make your heating more efficient when using your fireplace, and save money this winter.

6 Ways to Instantly Get More Heat From Your Fireplace

1. Keep the Surrounding Area Clear

We totally get the appeal of decorating your fireplace ideas to make your home look extra cozy, but putting things too close to your fireplace can impact how warm your home feels. Plus, it is a serious home fire hazard.

Eli Zimmer, heating pro and CEO of Luxaire HVAC Services, explains, 'Something that always helps is keeping the area around your fireplace as clear as possible. Anything placed in front of it or around it closely will block some of the hot air coming out, so make sure that furniture, for example, is placed around the edge of the room.'

This is especially important when adding your Christmas decor ideas, particularly your festive mantel decor ideas. Never hang anything directly over your fireplace to prevent accidents and aid better air flow.

2. Use a Fireplace Fan

One of my military dad's favorite tricks for keeping a home warm without turning up the heat is to use a fireplace fan from Amazon. These small non-electric fans sit on top of a wood-burning stove, and the radiating heat 'powers' it. It, in turn, pushes the hot air back into the room, rather than up and through the chimney. It also helps with directional heating. For instance, my dad points the fan in the direction of the room's door to help push some of the heat beyond the living room and through the house.

Arthur Kulchitskiy, designer and founder of JDI Construction, explains, 'These thermoelectric stove fans do not need batteries or electricity; they produce their own electricity through the thermal difference existing between their base and top fins. They will push the hot air into the room without making much noise.'

3. Run Ceiling Fans Clockwise

Ceiling fans are not just good for cooling a room with fans; they can also be great tools for recirculating heat, so long as you know how to differentiate between the best fan direction to cool a room and to heat one.

Eli says, 'Heat rises. Running your ceiling fan clockwise on a low speed helps to push warm air back downwards, catching any of that rising heat before it dissipates on your ceiling. It helps you to feel more of it

4. Use the Right Fuel

Picking the right fuel for your home heating type is essential to avoiding wasting heat (and to avoid damaging your fireplace). The most common type of fireplace for homes is a wood burner.

The best way to cost-effectively run a log burner, Arthur explains, is to use seasoned hardwood. 'The fuel you are burning makes a huge difference in British Thermal Units (BTUs). Just burning any old wood simply will not do.

'Seasoned means wood dried to a moisture content of less than 20 percent. Wet wood absorbs most of your fuel's energy in boiling off, creating steam, smoke, and creosote, the stuff of nightmares and trouble in your chimney.

'Oak, Maple, and Hickory woods are dense hardwoods and will provide more BTUs than pine wood, meaning you will get a better bargain for your money because they will burn hotter and longer. Oak wood burns approximately 24 million BTUs per cord compared with pine wood, which burns 15 million.'

You can find seasoned kiln-dried hardwood at The Home Depot. For convenience, you can then stack them neatly beside your fireplace for easy access. This black log basket from Wayfair is a chic addition for easy organization that keeps your wood off the floor.

Beyond that, learn how to start a fire in a fireplace correctly, too, to get the most out of your fuel to prevent waste and save money on heating.

Arthur continues, 'Our technique is Top Down Fire. Rather than building the kindling at the bottom, you start with your largest wood on a single level on the grate. Add smaller wood, kindling, and finish with your fire starter on top. The result is a much cleaner burn, from top to bottom. Smoke will be minimal, providing lots of heat without needing constant attention.'

5. Pick the Right Size Insert

When adding a fireplace to a house, it is vital that you pick the right-sized insert. Not only will this make the best use of the available space, but it will ensure the best chance of heating your home thoroughly, and it is safer, too.

Arthur explains, 'Seriously, if you want to cut your heating bill, this is the best investment you can make. A conventional fireplace has an efficiency rating of 10 percent. Most of the warming effect is simply lost going up your chimney. A high-efficiency insert is simply a heavy-duty wood stove or pellet stove right-sized to fit an existing fireplace opening. They can be constructed with a secondary burning chamber and a glass door.

'With this easy conversion, you dramatically increase your efficiency to over 70 percent. The insert burns fuel much more completely and also uses fans to pull cool air from your room over the hot metal surface of the insert. Then it blows this warm air back into your room, thus making your old fireplace a real heating appliance for your home.

'Look for an insert with an EPA certification. They will be more expensive in the beginning, but will pay for themselves with lower heating bills in a short span of a few years.' The Master Forge 2000-sq ft. EPA Wood Stove, from Lowe's, is a good example.

6. Install a Fireback or Heat Exchanger

If you have the budget, installing a fireback or heat exchanger is the best long-term fix for getting more heat from your fireplace.

Tamer Sayed, lead HVAC and furnace expert at Tamas Mechanical, explains, 'With any of these two, your fireplace can collect the heat that would have been lost and send it back into the room. A fireback is a thick metal plate that sits at the back of the fireplace and reflects heat into the room. In contrast, a heat exchanger actively captures heat from the fire and uses tubes or a fan to push warm air into the room instead of letting it escape up the chimney.'

You can buy heat exchanges, such as the AB Plate Heat Exchanger, from Amazon, Tamer says, but if you are not a DIY whiz, it might be a task to call a pro for. It is a more intensive fix than a simple fan, but it is a worthy investment for keeping a home warm all day throughout the colder months, and will benefit you, and keep bills down for years to come.

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Meet the Experts

As with any heating type, it also helps to know where to insulate your home to keep it warm all winter to make the most of the heat your fireplace generates.

As winter temperatures drop, many of us focus on sealing up windows and doors, but there is a tiny, overlooked spot quietly draining your heat and hiking your energy bills – Your outlets.

As small as they may be, these weak points are ‘basically holes in your walls’, heating experts point out. Luckily, they are quick, easy, and cheap to draft-proof, our pros assure.

Here is how the pros take under five minutes to create a warmer, more comfortable home.

How To Insulate Outlets

Knowing how and where to insulate your home to keep it warm often requires thinking outside the box.

Dan Cronen, HVAC expert at SupplyHouse, says, ‘An outlet on an exterior wall is basically a hole in the wall. Sure, it’s covered, but it is not normally sealed. Year-round, your heated or air-conditioned air will be bleeding through those gaps, and that is heat or AC you paid for.

'If you live in new construction, it likely will be sealed up pretty tight already, but the older and poorer insulated and sealed your home is, the more money that is seeping through the cracks.’

To instantly make heating more efficient and insulate your wall to lower bills, Dan suggests finding pre-cut insulating foam pads. They are available at all big box stores, he assures – for instance, the Frost King Weatherstrip Plates from Lowe’s for light switches, or the MD Building Products Outlet Foam Sealers from The Home Depot.

You do not need to do this for outlets on interior walls, just those that lead outside.

The Five-Minute Fix

Unscrew the cover plate, slip the appropriate gasket behind it, and screw it back on. It’s a do-it-once, last forever home improvement that will save you money from that moment on,’ Dan explains. It is probably best to turn the electrics off at the main breaker first, for safety. This multi-head screwdriver kit from Walmart will also help to remove the covers.

To really seal off drafts, Jon Gilbertson, HVAC expert and president at Chris Heating & Cooling, also suggests, ‘a bead of silicone around the outside of the box works great for stopping those tiny drafts coming through exterior-wall outlets.’

You can find top-rated GE silicone at Walmart. Jon adds, ‘When picking a foam insulating gasket, make sure it matches your outlet type so it seals fully behind the wall plate: Single, double, two-gang, or three-gang. Foam gaskets around 3mm thick block drafts much better than paper-thin ones.'

When it comes to the outlet itself, Dan then suggests investing in some child-proof outlet covers, available at Walmart. ‘You know, the ones you put in to keep little Johnny from learning about electricity the hard way with a fork in the outlet? Air can leak through the holes for the prongs on the plug as well, so those safety covers will close them up.'

If you have a newer home or replace your receptacles with tamper-proof outlets, they close themselves off when not in use, so you don’t need to worry about it.

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Meet the Experts

Adding insulation is a big part of keeping a poorly insulated home warm, but it isn’t the only upgrade worth investing in. Consider a smart thermostat to program the perfect winter heating schedule and avoid energy wastage that way, too.

With temperatures dropping even lower this week as we head towards Christmas, your bedroom might be feeling colder than ever. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it can also significantly affect your sleep, so how can you keep your bedroom cozy and comfortable without spending big on energy bills?

The key, say our HVAC pros, has nothing to do with your thermostat, radiators, or even your bedding. Instead, it all comes down to the position of your bed. Here, they explain this simple bedroom tweak to help you avoid any cold-weather sleeping mistakes.

This One Bedroom Tweak Will Boost Cozy Comfort

Designing a bedroom for better sleep often comes with the considerations of choosing colors to make a bedroom feel warmer, but, as lovely as they may look, these won't actually keep you warm while you sleep.

Instead, says Josh Mitchell, HVAC expert and founder of AirConditionerLab, it's all to do with where your bed is placed within your bedroom layout.

'Putting your bed against an exterior wall in winter makes the whole sleep setup colder,' he explains. 'That wall is always losing heat to the outside. Even insulated walls drop in temperature faster than interior ones.

'During chilly nights, I’ve measured surface temps of 45 to 55°F on exterior walls, while the air in the same room held steady at 68°F. So even if the thermostat is doing its job, your body is pressed against a surface that’s pulling heat away for six to eight hours.'

And, as Josh warns, 'That's the kind of steady heat loss that leads to poor sleep, cold wake-ups, and overcompensating with more blankets or space heaters.

'People often think the room is underheated, but the problem is radiant heat loss to cold surfaces. You lose heat not just through the air, but also to whatever your body is touching,' which can seriously hinder any efforts you've made to sleep better.

What to Do Instead

The simplest way to combat this and help you fall asleep faster and wake up more refreshed is to know exactly where a bed should be placed in a room.

Josh advises moving the bed to an interior wall, explaining, 'Interior walls are surrounded by conditioned space on both sides. They stay close to room temperature, usually within one to two degrees Fahrenheit of the air itself. That reduces heat loss through your back and head, keeps the sleep environment more stable, and stops those cold wake-ups around three or four a.m. when the house is at its coldest

'I’ve seen people move their bed just one wall over and cut their space heater use by three to five hours per night. That’s 50 to 70 hours of heating per month less, which translates into lower bills and better sleep.'

Glenn Cault, HVAC and air quality expert and CEO at Gault Heating & Cooling, adds that if you can't fully move your bed, even moving it just a little can make a big difference.

'Against an interior wall or diagonally in a corner formed by two interior walls are the two "warmest spots" of the room,' he advises. 'But even moving a bed just 12–18 inches away from a window and exterior wall can reduce the radiant chill you feel. Even double-pane windows and well-insulated walls feel colder than interior walls and pull away your body's heat even if you don't touch it directly.'

To further help cut energy bills, you can also:

• Use a heated mattress pad instead of a blanket: 'It warms you from below, runs at a lower wattage, and retains heat under the covers rather than losing it into the air,' says Josh. For this, we recommend the Sunbeam Electric Restful Quilted Heated Mattress Pad, available at Amazon, which is a number one bestseller. You can also use a hot water bottle for a more affordable fix.
• Lay down a thick rug or carpet if you have bare flooring: As Josh explains, even with central heating on, rooms with cold floors can drop two to four degrees Fahrenheit overnight. This is amplified in homes with crawlspaces or basements lacking in basement insulation ideas.
• Keep bedding breathable but layered: The best way to stay cozy is by layering natural materials, like cottons and wool. Then, you can add or remove layers as you need. You can also make bedding feel warmer in winter by opting for a higher tog duvet or adding a throw blanket. I've been testing and loving the Bedsure Gentlesoft 2-in-1 Comforter Set and Detachable Fluffy Blanket available at Amazon in this cold weather.
• Check your vent placement: 'I’ve been in bedrooms where the supply vent was working fine, but a bed frame was blocking the only return,' warns Josh. 'That traps warm air near the ceiling, leaving the lower half of the room freezing. If the air can’t circulate, no schedule or thermostat setting will fix the cold.'
• Use a programmable thermostat: As Chris Hays, owner at Local Roots AC and Plumbing, advises, 'A programmable thermostat is effective. You can temper the room 30 minutes before bedtime to ensure a comfortable temperature for the night's rest.' The Sensi Smart Programmable Wi-Fi Thermostat available at Walmart is a bestseller, and makes it easy to toggle your settings to the best thermostat setting for sleep.

Cozy Bedroom Essentials

Once you've moved your bed, these products are designed to bolster and boost warmth, and add some cozy comfort.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

'A lot of heat issues aren’t about adding more heat – they’re about keeping what’s already there,' adds Josh. 'Switching walls is one of those low-effort, high-impact changes that people don’t think about until someone points it out.'

The hotel method layering trick is also a great way to stay cozy.

There is nothing worse than switching on your heating on a freezing winter's day and realising that your furnace is not heating as it should. A struggling system can leave rooms chilly, energy bills high, and your patience wearing thin.

You don't have to call a pro right away, however. There are some small things you can check first to fix the problem yourself.

These are the most common reasons your furnace isn't heating correctly, and what you can do about it to make heating more efficient and restore your comfort.

3 Common Reasons Your Furnace Isn’t Heating

1. Blocked Filters

Eli Zimmer, CEO at Luxaire HVAC Services, begins, 'One thing I would definitely check is the filter – if it hasn’t been cleaned or replaced in a while, there could be significant buildup which could then be prohibiting the furnace from working at its normal capacity.'

This is the simplest furnace maintenance check you can do as a homeowner to avoid breakdowns. You can find furnace replacement filters on Amazon in several sizes to suit any furnace, with next-day delivery, so you do not have to struggle to heat a home if the power is out for too long.

'You could also check and clean vents around your home,' he adds, 'to see if those need to be cleaned too, so that air is flowing out easily.'

2. A Dead Thermostat

There are several common thermostat problems that could be the cause of a furnace not heating properly, especially if the filters are clean.

Dan Cronen, HVAC expert at SupplyHouse, asks, 'Does it need new batteries? It will tell you if it does. What has changed around it? The thermostat has a built-in thermometer, and when it “feels” colder than the temperature you’ve set it at, it switches the heat on.

'If it’s picking up heat from all the Thanksgiving cooking, it will think all is warm and well. If a space heater is plugged in right next to it, that will throw off its reading. Even TVs and electronics put out enough heat to throw off a temperature reading, so if the kids just plugged in that new TV and Xbox they got from Santa next to the thermostat, it could be messing with your thermostat.

'If you do find that something is throwing your thermostat reading, just turn the temperature setting up. People get unreasonably attached to their number on the thermostat, forgetting that the point is to keep them comfortable. If it’s cold where you are but not at the thermostat, turn it up!'

Knowing where to put a thermostat and relocating it (especially if it's close to a built-in vent or radiator) can also help long-term. It is a simple thermostat mistake to avoid for a warmer home.

If you have a smart thermostat, such as the Google Nest thermostat from Amazon or the Honeywell thermostat from Best Buy, check that it is connected to your boiler and sending the correct signals to turn on and off. The brand troubleshooting page should be able to help you with this, depending on which model you have.

3. The Sensor is Dirty

Matt Gorbacz, founder and indoor air quality specialist at Clean Air Technologies, explains, 'Another common issue is a dirty flame sensor or dirty burners. When they get covered in dust, the furnace keeps shutting off early, and the heat doesn’t stay on long enough to warm the house properly.'

This is the result of a safety mechanism designed to shut the furnace off and prevent a gas buildup when it cannot detect a lit flame.

'Now, you can try cleaning a flame sensor if you know where it is,' Dan says. You can do this by removing the sensor and cleaning it with steel wool or a scouring pad from Amazon. 'However, if the furnace keeps short-cycling even after cleaning, do call in a professional, as you don’t want to mess with gas parts.'

When to Call an Expert

Dan warns, 'Beyond this, you get into more technical waters. Maybe the furnace is having problems coming on or staying on. Older units may have a pilot light that needs to be relit, but they stopped making them decades ago at this point, so that’s less and less common.

'Modern units will likely have a control board that will actively give you an error code if you know where to look and how to decipher it.'

If the three basic checks haven't solved the issue, it is always safer to call a professional and have your HVAC system serviced. This keeps both you and your home safe from potentially catastrophic damage.

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Meet the Experts

If your furnace is working, but your home feels cool, check your insulation and draft proofing to make the heat go further. Beyond that, try the free trick to make radiators heat up faster and unblock vents to keep your home warm without turning up the heat.

If you're looking for easy and affordable ways to avert drafts and keep your home cozy, you're probably familiar with window insulation.

And, for the job, there's no product more recommended and easy to use than the number one bestselling Duck Brand Window Insulation Kit, available at Amazon.

Here, we explain why it's one of the best ways to weatherproof your windows.

This Window Insulation Is the Best Way to Cover Windows for Winter

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Using window insulation kits is a DIY draft-proofing solution we recommend time and time again, and one product crops up as recommended by pros more than all the others: the Duck Brand Window Insulation Kit, available at Amazon, and it's easy to see why.

For starters, using it is one of the simplest ways to prevent the sneaky ways drafts hide in your home, and one of the quickest, most affordable ways to insulate windows and tick off this all-important maintenance task to help lower your energy bills.

One box of shrink-to-fit window film can insulate up to ten standard-sized 3' x 5' windows, and there's no measuring required – simply cut to size and use a hairdryer to shrink the film, get rid of wrinkles, and increase the transparency.

You'll just need to clean your windows and let them dry completely before applying the film. We recommend doing so with a damp duster, available at Walmart, before following up with the Method Glass Cleaner + Surface Cleaner, also available at Walmart, paired with a microfiber cleaning cloth from Amazon.

Additionally, this insulation kit isn't only suitable for glass windows. You can also use it on painted or finished wood, aluminum, or vinyl, to help cut energy bills all around the home.

And, once the winter season is over, the window kit removes easily. Therefore, it won't ruin your window treatment ideas come spring and summer, either.

Therefore, it's no surprise that over 10,000 shoppers bought it last month alone, or that it boasts over 3,200 five-star reviews, firmly answering the question of 'Do window insulation kits work?'

'Amazing product for an amazing price,' reads one recent review from Wendy. 'Our windows are old and extremely drafty. You could literally feel the draft hitting you while sitting on the couch. Our heater would run pretty much consistently, and that made for a pretty hefty electric bill.

'My brother-in-law suggested this product [that] was so easy to install and works perfectly. Our living room actually stays warm now, our heater isn’t running constantly, and no more draft.'

A second reviewer, John, writes that it's an 'excellent product with superior results. This product, by far, is the best window covering on the market. Crystal clear, and installation is straightforward and effortless. The tape supplied is premium quality and removes easily.

'The "shrink factor" of the plastic is great and tightens up, providing no wrinkles. One tip: Make sure you keep the hair dryer at least four or six inches from the plastic when shrinking.

'Work from the top down, getting rid of wrinkles as you proceed.'

Therefore, it's easy to see why this window insulation kit is one of the best ways to keep your home warm without turning up the heat, and easiest ways to keep a poorly insulated house warm without spending big.

What to Shop

You can also use window film to soundproof your windows.

The furnace is the hero of a house in winter. But there’s one tiny part inside it that most homeowners don’t even know exists, let alone realize they’re supposed to clean – the flame sensor.

Left unchecked, this small but crucial component could shut off your furnace when you need it most, leaving you shivering and with a potentially eye-watering emergency call-out bill.

The good news? You can clean it yourself and prevent winter stress. Here's how to complete this annual furnace maintenance check safely to keep your home cozy this Christmas.

How To Clean a Furnace Flame Sensor

A flame sensor in a furnace is a thin metal rod that detects if the burner is lit after gas flows, preventing dangerous build-up if it cannot sense the flame. If the sensor becomes too dirty, it can shut off prematurely, turning off your furnace at the most critical time of the year. Luckily, it is a common heating problem that you can repair yourself with cleaning.

Before you can start with the cleaning tips, however, the first step is to turn off the power and the gas valve, advises Tamer Sayed, a licensed HVAC technician and the owner-operator of Tamas Mechanical.'

'Never attempt to clean the furnace (or any other electrical equipment for that matter) while the power is on,' he urges. It is one of the worst cleaning mistakes that risks your safety and your appliances. 'Aside from switching off the unit, turn off the circuit breaker for further safety.'

With the power shut off, you will need the following tools:

• A screwdriver with the appropriate head for your furnace. This Screwdriver set from Walmart comes with 59 heads, so you always have the right tool to hand.
• Fine steel wool, such as a Brillo pad from Amazon.
• A clean microfiber cloth, also from Walmart.
• Optional: Work gloves from Lowe's to protect your skin.

1. Locate and Remove the Sensor

Before setting your winter heating schedule, locate the sensor and remove it for cleaning.

To do this, Tamer explains, 'Remove the panel on your furnace and look inside the compartment. The flame sensor is typically located near the burner and resembles a small metal rod with a ceramic base. Once you've located the sensor, remove the screw that secures it in place. Then carefully pull it out.

'One tip when doing this: Take a picture of the location before removing the flame sensor,' he adds. 'Make sure you don't misplace the screw.' A magnetic parts tray from Walmart makes these types of delicate DIY tasks less risky, holding your parts in place.

2. Clean the Sensor

The flame sensor is one of the few things you should clean with steel wool around your home.

Tamer suggests, 'A steel wool works just fine for cleaning the flame sensor. I highly recommend a Brillo pad from Amazon.'

However, Matt Gorbacz, owner of Clean Air Technologies, advises, 'Use a fine-grit emery cloth, something like 400 or 600 grit, or a Scotch-Brite pad [also from Amazon]. I suggest you don’t use sandpaper as it is too rough and can ruin the coating.

'Lightly rub the rod to remove the carbon buildup. You don’t have to rub it roughly, just clean the soot off so it’s shiny again. To finish, polish the sensor with a soft microfiber cloth, removing any debris so that it shines.'

3. Replace the Sensor and Power

With the sensor clean, replace it and the screw before reattaching the panel front and turning the electricity and gas back on.

If the sensor is not in the right position, the furnace will not light again. Try replacing the sensor again to get the correct placement.

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Meet the Experts

In the worst-case scenario, there are some ways to heat a house when the furnace goes out, should the flame sensor not be at fault. If this is the case, it is time to call a pro, advises Matt. 'The furnace might have dirty burners or a gas issue,' he warns.

During winter, we all know that drafts can be one of the main culprits that hinder all the effort we put into warming our homes.

But, say our window experts, there's one small yet oh-so-simple task you can do to cut heat loss by up to a third, and it takes only mere moments.

Here, they explain why putting your windows in 'winter mode' is one of the most effective ways to weatherproof your windows in cold weather.

What is the 'Winter Mode' for Windows?

To find out more about 'winter mode' for windows, we spoke to the experts at Express Bi-Folding Doors, who explained that many modern windows come with an adjustable feature that allows you to pull the window tighter into the frame when closed.

This has recently been dubbed as the 'winter mode' setting on social media, which accurately explains the way in which it helps to reduce cold drafts from seeping in.

'Switching your windows into winter mode is a really quick process; it usually takes no more than a minute per window with a standard allen key,' explains Geoff Clarkson, window fitting expert at Express Bi-Folding Doors. This 26-piece Amazon Basics Hex Key Allen Wrench should be all you need.

'And you only need to do it once before the weather gets really cold, and it can easily be reversed next spring,' adds Geoff, once attention turns back to keeping your home cool.

How to Put Your Windows in 'Winter Mode'

To do this, begin by opening your windows and looking for small screws along the inside of the frame, which usually fit an Allen key and have a small notch that typically points to 12 o'clock.

Then, insert your Allen key and turn the screw clockwise a quarter of a turn, which will draw the window closer to the frame, reducing gaps and effectively draft-proofing a living room, draft-proofing a bedroom, or draft-proofing a sunroom. After adjustment, the notch should then point to three o'clock.

'Close your window to check the fit,' advise the experts at Express Bi-Folding Doors. 'If it feels too stiff, ease it slightly by turning the screw back so the notch sits at one or two o’clock. This prevents the rubber gaskets from being overly compressed, which could damage them over time.'

Though this only takes a few seconds, the difference it can make over the colder months in terms of cutting your energy bills is impressive, particularly with older windows.

'In fact, estimates show that home windows can be responsible for between at least 10 to 15 per cent of the energy that escapes a property,' advises Geoff. 'By adjusting them into winter mode and tightening the seal, you reduce the draughts and stop unnecessary warmth escaping.

'While it won't replace the need for good glazing and insulation, it can cut heat loss through gaps by up to a third.'

Other Steps Homeowners Can Take to Reduce Window Drafts

The head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden, here at Homes & Gardens has been dealing with drafts in her newly-built home, and says 'fixing them has made a big difference to my energy costs.'

She recommends:

• Check under your front door: 'If you have a gap less than one inch, use self-adhesive weatherstripping, available from Amazon, to fill the gap easily and quickly. If it's bigger than that, you'll need something more robust, such as a durable, sealed aluminium door sweep.' For this, the Thermwell Extra Aluminum & Brush Door Sweep, available at Walmart, prevents drafts, water, and insects from entering.
• Draft blockers: 'A filled draft blocker can be used for doors or windows and protects your home from cold or hot air seeping in. I prefer ones with a machine-washable outer layer as these items can get dirty from being on the floor or window sills. The Sunolga draft stopper from Amazon comes in 13 lengths, seven colors, and has a machine-washable cover.'
• Insulate your windows: 'Insulating windows is one of the most affordable yet effective ways to keep your home cozy at a low cost, and window insulation kits really do work. For example, the Frost King Shrink Window Kit available at Amazon is highly durable and easy to use.'
• Layer your window treatments: 'Trapping cold air against the window and stopping it from entering the rest of the room will stabilise your temperature, and is a quick, chic curtain trick to stop drafts instantly. Conversely, allowing warm air into the space, then closing your blinds and curtains, will help trap warm air against the window. The key is stopping cold air from seeping into the rest of your space and causing a window draft to be felt.'

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All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

While you need to stop drafts, you'll also need to stop condensation on windows overnight to prevent mold and mildew.

As winter truly beds in, most of us play a daily guessing game with the thermostat, trying to stay cozy without blowing the monthly budget. So, how long should the heating be on each day, anyway?

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, there is a general goal HVAC pros recommend you aim for, so your house maintains a steady and comfortable temperature and avoids winter damage.

Here's how to balance comfort and costs to make your heating more efficient this winter – even in storm season – and the heating schedule to go for.

How Long To Leave Heating On Each Day

Annoyingly, there is no rule of thumb for how long your heating should be on each day. The figure is affected by several external factors, such as the weather and how well your home is insulated, according to Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and owner of Air Conditioner Lab.

Rather than aim for a set number of hours, you want to achieve a semi-steady day temperature of around 68°Fahreheit, he says. This is the new home heating temperature standard designed to keep you comfortable and your home safe from cold-related damage. 'Temperatures below 55°F can cause condensation on cold walls, especially in older homes,' he warns. 'Lower it to 60-62°F when you’re gone for the day or sleeping.'

You can buy remote temperature sensors from Walmart to give you a good overview of the overall temperature across your home.

Heating Schedules

HVAC technician Josh shares, 'On average, in winter weather, most furnaces or boilers will cycle on and off for eight to 12 hours per day. That’s assuming daytime temps around 35-45°F (1 to 7°C) and nights in the 20s. But runtime isn’t all at once. You might experience two or three shorter cycles per hour, depending on how well-insulated and draft-proofed the house is, and how effectively the thermostat maintains the temperature.

'During a cold snap or snowstorm, when temps drop to 10°F (-12°C) or lower, I’ve seen older homes with poor insulation run their heat for 16 to 20 hours a day to keep the house at 68°F,' he continues.

This is why it is so important to include a thorough HVAC service as part of winterizing your home to prepare your heating system for prolonged running.

Generally speaking, you should follow an efficient heating schedule that works around your day-to-day activities, Josh says:

• Morning schedule: Heating the house 30 to 60 minutes before you wake up works best if you're trying to avoid long morning cycles. If your floors are tile or stone, they'll feel cold regardless of the thermostat setting. Warm air doesn't fix that right away. Letting the system run before you move around gives the walls and surfaces time to catch up. You'll use less energy this way than blasting the system after you're already cold.
• Leaving the house: If you're out for less than 4 hours, leave the thermostat around 60 to 62°F (15 to 17°C). That keeps the interior stable without letting things cool so much that the system has to run for an hour to recover. Shutting it off completely doesn't work unless you live in a modern, well-sealed house with R-30 walls and triple-pane glass. For most homes, recovery burns more fuel than holding. If you're gone for multiple days, set it to 55°F (13°C) and open the under-sink cabinets where pipes are near exterior walls to stop pipes from freezing. You don't want pockets of cold air forming in tight spaces.
• Midday burst: If you're home during the day and want to avoid long evening cycles, a 30 to 60-minute heat run around midday can help. That warms up the drywall, floors, and furniture. Once they're warm, they radiate heat back into the room, reducing the load on your system later. Without that, your system has to work harder during the evening to heat not just the air but every cold surface in the house. That's where you see hour-long cycles that spike energy use.
• Evening schedule: If you've been out, start heating 30 to 45 minutes before you return. Trying to heat the space after you walk in results in high-stage burner cycles or max draw from the electric coils. That's what drives up utility costs. Set the thermostat to 68 to 70°F (20 to 21°C) for a few hours during dinner and wind-down time. Then lower it to 60-62°F about an hour before bed. That gives your body time to adjust and therefore sleep better, and lets the furnace shut off earlier. Bedrooms and rooms on upper floors tend to trap heat anyway, so you don't need to keep the whole house at peak temperature overnight.

'The schedule works, but only if the airflow is correct, the thermostat is in a smart location, and the insulation holds,' Josh warns. 'You can start with the structure and fine-tune the schedule based on how fast your house loses heat.

'A furnace working less is good, but only if it's still keeping the building materials warm. That's what keeps your bills low and the system running longer without repairs.'

How To Maintain a Steady Temperature

While the best way to achieve and maintain 68°F is through a smart thermostat, such as the Google Nest Smart Thermostat from Amazon, set to kick in whenever the temperature dips to maintain a constant temperature without running the heating all day.

However, if you cannot install a smart thermostat, all is not lost. You can still cut energy bills while staying comfortable. Josh recommends you:

• Seal the room you spend the most time in. That means closing the doors, installing a weatherstrip [from Walmart] around the door frame, and using a towel or door snake [weighted options from Amazon work well] at the bottom. That small fix cuts heat loss more than most people think.
• Keep furniture and curtains away from supply and return vents. When a couch or dresser blocks airflow, the furnace has to run longer and at higher temperatures to keep up. Homes can lose 10 to 15 percent of their efficiency when return vents are blocked, and that extra strain can wear the system down over time. Clearing them is the best free trick to make radiators heat up faster, too.
• Open curtains when the sun is out and close them at sunset. South-facing windows can raise room temperatures by 3 to 5°F on a sunny winter day, which delays the next heating cycle. Be sure to close them at night to keep heat in, opting for thermal curtains from Wayfair for the most benefit. It's one of many great curtain hacks for a warmer home.
• Use a plug-in space heater in the room you use most, but only if it’s safe and rated for indoor use. Pair it with a simple timer or manual thermostat plug to avoid running it nonstop. I’ve seen homeowners cut central heating time by 30 to 40 percent this way during short cold spells. Be aware of the most dangerous space heater mistakes, however, to minimize household fire risks.

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Meet the Expert

If you are eager to save money on bills, be sure to also clean vents around your home, Josh concludes. 'Another tip that gets missed: Vacuum your return vents monthly during the heating season. Even when you’re changing filters, dust builds up around the grilles and slows airflow. That small resistance adds runtime.'

When the temperature drops, either suddenly or slowly over a matter of weeks, it can be very easy to overlook the biggest leak danger of your house: Frozen pipes.

This is more likely to happen on water lines indoors that are set on external walls, in hallways or rooms without radiators and vents, or if they’re running externally around your property. If the water in the pipe freezes, it will expand, causing damage and leaks.

There is an easy fix, though, and Walmart shoppers are loving the Frost King electric heating cable to insulate your pipes, and it’s now just $29. Simply wrap your pipe, plug it in, and you’re set for added winter protection for your home. Its sensors will do the rest.

Why Electric Heating Cables for Frozen Pipes are So Effective

Joseph Wade, VP of Operations at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, says, ‘If you have outdoor pipes that will be exposed to these freezing temperatures and you know you won’t have to use them all winter, shut off the water supply in them and drain. Disconnect hoses from the pipes and leave the outside valve open in case there’s water left in the lines.

‘For those lines you can’t shut off, you’ll have to insulate them. Check out your local hardware store and invest in pipe sleeves, heat tape or heat cables [jump to our picks for home delivery]. These items will be your best option for insulating pipes that run outside your house or in unheated areas like an attic or basement. Newspapers might work if temperatures don’t drop far below freezing, but specific products like pipe sleeves, heat tape, and heat cable are more reliable.’

Walmart Shoppers rave about the Frost King cable, which is 12-feet long, and has an average rating of 4.8/5. One verified purchaser left a five-star review, explaining, ‘It was exactly what I needed. We have been having long extended periods of temperatures between 20° and 0° so the drain for the water from the furnace has been freezing.

'Heating up the garage was not enough to keep it from freezing over. I put this on the drain pipe, and it hasn't frozen since. It isn't much heat, but just enough. I have been using it for a few weeks now, and it seems to be working just great even with the snow and wind.’

You can use the kit on plastic or metal cold water lines, and it accommodates two-inch pipes well, offering excellent pipe freezing prevention down to -40° Fahrenheit. This is an essential move for adequately winterizing your home, and time and money well spent.

If your pipe has already frozen, the product will help gently thaw it at a rate that won’t lead to leaks or further problems, as defrosting too rapidly can cause bursts .

Walmart's Frost King kit also has built-in self-regulation mechanisms, meaning it will draw power and start doing its magic to stop pipes from freezing automatically. It will activate at 38°F and deactivate at 45°F. This will ensure it doesn’t run up bills unnecessarily, which, with energy costs being what they are in 2025, every little saving to slash your bills in the winter is worth knowing about.

You don’t have to do any guesswork for the operation either, as there is a light that switches on (it’s located in the plug), which will tell you whether it’s on or not.

Pro Pipe Tips in Winter

Here are some extra tips from plumbing pro Joseph, to help you prevent and deal with pipes that have frozen up.

• Value location: Be sure you know where the main water shutoff valve is in your house. If, despite your best efforts, a pipe freezes and bursts, turn off the water immediately to limit the damage, then work on thawing the affected pipes.
• Install sensors and automatic shut-off valves: Today, you have the option of installing sensors that detect water, and in some cases, temperature change. If the sensors detect a problem, it will notify you through the app and shut off the water to prevent water damage. Amazon sells a three-pack of sensors for water leaks affordably, and they come with app functionality, which shoppers praise for its 'seamless' and easy setup.
• Don’t turn off the heat: When you leave your house during winter, don’t turn off the thermostat – that’s a heating mistake to avoid. That drop in temperature inside the home can lead to frozen pipes. Make sure to also check out your water shut-off valve is working correctly in case of an emergency where you have to shut off the water supply to your home.

If you haven’t been able to prevent a frozen pipe this winter:

• Warm it up slowly: Once you’ve identified a problematic pipe, gently warm the air around the frozen section using a space heater (be careful to check manufacturer information on yours, as they are not all suitable for outdoor use), a warm towel, or a heat lamp. Do not turn to flames or torches, or hairdryers on high heat settings, as that can warm the pipe up too quickly and lead to other issues.
• Run the faucet: Experts also recommend that you turn the faucet on so that you allow water to flow as the ice melts away. Frozen pipes are not to be taken lightly, and if you’re in any doubt about how to deal with yours, call the pros.

Plumbing pro Joseph adds that if the troublesome pipe is in your ceiling, he recommends homeowners call a licensed plumber. He says, ‘This is difficult to thaw yourself. Most times, the wall or ceiling will have to be cut to access the frozen pipe.’

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If you've been battling a frozen or snowy driveway, ditch the expensive salt, which can damage your lawn and plants, and instead use sand to add instant grip and traction to walk and drive on the surface without backbreaking shovelling.

Once it has melted away, scoop up the sand and save it in a lidded bucket for reuse later. It's a great way to be more sustainable at home whilst coping with preparing your home for a freeze.

For many years, the expert advice has been to keep your home at 66°F (19°C) but the trouble is that nowadays, many modern homes are not built for that.

It’s a number that’s been repeated from decades-old advice focused on energy savings, our HVAC pro reveals. And in 2025, it no longer holds up when you consider how modern housing and construction materials behave, how we use our home, and how HVAC systems are sized and controlled.

Instead, our pro advises bumping your thermostat to 68–70°F in winter (20–21°C), to keep your house warm all day, your bills as reasonable as possible, and your wellbeing and building structures in good health. I tested it in my home for five weeks and it really works.

Why Keeping Your Home at 66°F Is No Good Anymore

Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and founder of Air Conditioner Lab explains, ‘When indoor temperatures stay around 66°F, wall and ceiling surfaces can drop below 60°F (16°C), especially in homes with poor airflow or cold exterior walls. Once the surface temperature reaches the dew point and humidity is above 55 percent, condensation will form.'

Our pro says he has seen mold start behind wardrobes, in basements, and even in upstairs corners where the insulation was compressed in homes that are underheated.

'In one job, the interior drywall surface measured 58°F (14.5°C) with 58% humidity,' Josh says. 'That's all it takes. The home was less than 10 years old with fiberglass batt insulation rated R-13. No obvious leaks, no flooding, just low indoor temps and stale air.’

That silent and hidden risk of mold growth, despite there being no issues with leaks, is what experts are now warning homeowners to avoid by raising the thermostat dial a touch to the new safe heating zone.

Josh adds, ‘Bumping the thermostat to 68–70°F (20-21°C) helps keep interior surfaces warmer and drier. That lowers the risk of mold and reduces thermal stress on walls. HVAC systems also run smoothly. At 70°F, your return air stays warm enough to prevent short cycles, especially on multi-stage furnaces and variable-speed air handlers.

'That matters because short cycling causes the system to stop before the heat exchanger has fully dried out, which leads to rusting and flue gas condensation over time.’

All of that to say, if your thermostat is set too low, you could damage your HVAC system, creating costly bills down the line.

It also helps maintain your health more easily at 68-70°F, as low indoor temperatures slow the function of the cilia in your nose and lungs, reducing your body's ability to filter viruses and bacteria.

Various studies in Europe, including a Cold Homes Public Health Review in Wales, UK, have found that homes under 64°F meant raised health risks for its occupants, whilst the Marmot Review on fuel poverty found low home temperatures triple the risk of respiratory illness in winter, especially in vulnerable age groups such as babies and the elderly.

The Exceptions

There are some exceptions, however, as Josh details, ‘Homes with closed-cell spray foam in walls and attic spaces can maintain a stable 66°F, with fewer problems, because the insulation reduces temperature swings and air leakage.

'The same goes for homes that have triple-pane low-E windows, since those surfaces don't radiate as much cold back into the room. But if the house still has R-11 fiberglass batts, or older aluminum single-pane windows, or a vented crawl space, I would never set it below 70°F (21°C) in the winter.’

Energy Costs vs Risk

Whilst keeping a cooler home may save on heating costs (for every degree Celsius you lower the thermostat, it saves roughly three to five percent on energy), the other risks can end up being more costly.

Josh Mitchell, HVAC pro, adds, ‘I've seen homes rack up more in drywall and paint repair after mold than what they saved on gas or electricity, not to mention the cost of cleaning ductwork after the spores spread through the system.’

To check your home’s humidity and surface temperatures, use a basic IR thermometer and a digital hygrometer, both available affordably at Amazon.

Josh advises that if your walls are below 60°F and the humidity is above 55 percent, your home will be prone to dampness, mold, and health risks. ‘You'll need to raise the temperature or reduce the humidity, or use better ventilation or a good dehumidifier,’ he says.

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It’s also important to note that if your HVAC system was sized for a 70°F target temperature, dropping it to 66°F means longer runtimes and wider comfort swings between rooms.

That's when you might encounter hot and cold spots in your home and have to pump up the heat with electric blankets and portable heaters.

Last November, when the bitter winter cold hit, I plugged the large gap under my front door with weatherstripping. It felt like a success at the time because the draft under it had been so severe. But a year on, I’ve realised the weatherstripping bristles are not working well enough, and my entryway is still cold and drafty, leading to a colder living room.

After speaking with experts, including HVAC professionals, I’ve increased my draftproofing this winter with an easy-to-install, stick-on $6 draft blocker from Amazon, for my living room door. I've paired it with a simple $6 Amazon door sweep on the bottom of my front door to double up my draft defenses.

It's only been in play for four days, but already, this pair has helped regulate my home's temperature and stopped drafts that were kicking on my smart thermostat unnecessarily, leading to a hot upstairs and cold downstairs. Plus, I'm now more comfortable in the early mornings and evenings when it is particularly cold, which is the biggest win of all.

The 2 Cheap Fixes I’ve Installed This Winter to Stop Annoying Cold Drafts

Firstly, the solid door sweep on the front door has instantly blocked drafts where my weatherstripping has failed to work sufficiently well.

Josh Michell, HVAC pro and owner of Air Conditioner Lab says, ‘I've come across many homes where a draft like that can cause more damage than people realize. If you're seeing a one-inch or larger gap under the front door, those stick-on brush seals are not going to cut it, especially if the door faces wind or connects to a smaller space like an entryway.’

My house is in a cul-de-sac, but the front door faces the direction of wind movement through our street, and the gap was around an inch, hence the weatherstripping failing.

Josh adds, ‘Those brush-type seals tend to fail because air still pushes through the bristles, especially when wind pressure or stack effect kicks in. They’re better for light drafts but not for gaps over half an inch. A solid neoprene seal physically blocks airflow and holds up better over time.’

He recommends a ‘door shoe’ with a built-in drip cap and adjustable bottom seal. Amazon has one that fits the bill, from Jelostone. Josh says, ‘These typically mount directly onto the bottom of the door and create a mechanical seal against the threshold. You can fine-tune the height depending on how uneven the floor is. Most units can be installed in 20 to 30 minutes with just a drill.’

It's a great option for sure, but as I didn’t want to drill into my door or spend that long installing, I went for a self-adhesive Amazon door sweep. This is also suitable for rentals as it does not make a permanent change or involve any drilling.

Aluminium door shoes are helpful, too, Josh says. ‘They perform better in homes where wind hits the door directly. I’ve installed these in entryways where the indoor temperature dropped by 3 to 5 degrees overnight from air seeping in. After sealing, the space maintained a more even temperature, and thermostats stopped cycling on as often.’

This was exactly my scenario, as my small entryway has an internal door that opens directly into our living room, and is adjacent to our thermostat. Since installing these new fixes, I've been able to turn my thermostat down from 21.5°C (71°F) to 19.5°C (67°F), saving energy usage and bills, while still feeling cozy.

Josh adds, ‘If you want something simpler and don’t mind a visible fix, a weighted fabric draft stopper can help as a secondary backup. These are around $15 to $20 and work best when paired with a mechanical seal. I usually recommend washable ones with non-slip backing if the door gets regular use.’

The Sunolga 38-inch stopper from Amazon has a removable, washable cover and fits gaps up to three inches. It can be used to block heat or cold, making it useful year-round.

I Tried It

Since installing my cold-busting duo to draft-proof my entryway, my house is much more comfortable, and the heating is cycling well. Josh explains, ‘Since your thermostat is nearby, sealing that gap should keep it from misreading the temperature and kicking on more than necessary. I’ve also seen homeowners move the thermostat a few feet away or block air flow to it slightly using an open-top plastic cover. That helps reduce false triggers without affecting room temp readings.’

That's exactly what I've found. Previously, the drafty entryway and therefore the cold adjacent area in my living room, where my thermostat lives, meant the heating kept kicking on, making the upper floor of my home too hot, which impacted how well we could sleep. Meanwhile, downstairs was too chilly to be comfortable.

Now with the draft blocked, the smart thermostat isn't kicking on unnecessarily, and the temperature across both floors of my home is much more even and comfortable.

If, after these fixes, you’re still feeling a draft under your front door, Josh suggests checking the threshold itself. ‘If the door sweep still doesn’t seal tightly after installation,' he says, 'you may need an adjustable threshold plate to raise the contact point. It takes a bit more effort, but it's a good option if the gap is uneven or over an inch. The bonus is that when the bottom seal is done right, it also cuts down on noise from outside, which helps in entryways near roads or shared walls.’

What to Shop

Experts in draft resolution share their top picks for sorting this annoying winter draft problem.

Editor's Picks

Alongside blocking drafts, here are three winter essentials our editors love for keeping warm in cold snaps, extreme weather, and being prepared for big freezes without running up an enormous energy bill.

Having the comfort and affordability of a small portable heater doesn't mean having to compromise on aesthetic.

With the start of December now exactly a week away and the holidays just around the corner, attention in homes has well and truly turned to keeping cozy and comfortable.

And, with heating more important than ever at this time of year, it's imperative to avoid a furnace breakdown when you need it most. But how can homeowners ensure a warm winter?

As an HVAC expert, my best advice is to test your system before you need it, switching the heat on and letting it run for 15 to 20 minutes, without waiting for the forecast to drop to 30°F if you can avoid it. Here's why it's essential when keeping keep a home warm all day.

Why Homeowners Should Test Their Furnace Now

Most importantly, testing furnaces now gives homeowners time to notice things like strange startup noises, the smell of burning dust coming off the heat exchanger, or a blower motor that's slow to heat up.

As the founder of AirConditionerLab, I know that early-season problems often stem from dust buildup or parts that stick after months of inactivity, while keeping a home cool over summer, which a simple test run would reveal. Then, if there are any issues, you'll have time to call in a pro before the cold weather really sets in.

Once that's been tested, these are the next steps I suggest:

1. Inspect the Air Filter

Next, I visually inspect the air filter, rather than checking the date. Hold it up to a bright light; if you cannot see through it, please replace it. A clogged filter reduces airflow, causing the heat exchanger to overheat and shut off. That trips the high limit switch, and the furnace keeps turning on and off every few minutes, doing the opposite of making heating more efficient. You’ll feel warm air at first, then nothing.

I usually recommend the Filtrete Air Filter, available in a pack of two at Amazon. It traps dust and pet dander without blocking airflow, unlike some higher-MERV filters. It comes in several size options, and the one-inch version works for most systems unless yours was designed for a thicker filter.

2. Vacuum Vents

Additionally, homeowners often forget about return vents and supply registers. Use your best handheld vacuum [our top pick is the BLACK+DECKER dust buster Handheld Vacuum available at Amazon] to go over the vents, especially the cold-air returns. Dust buildup forces the blower to work harder, and, if you're in a home with pets or kids, that dust adds up fast. Even wiping the outside of the furnace helps.

Fine dust can clog pressure tubes, leading to a pressure switch failure. I've replaced more of those than I can count, and they're usually $150 to $300 parts with labor.

3. Check the Condensate Drain

With high-efficiency furnaces, I always check the condensate drain, which is crucial when winterizing a house inside and out. These models produce water when they run. If the drain trap is dry or blocked, the furnace won't run.

Pour a cup of warm water into the drain to keep the trap primed. Some people also use condensate tablets [such as the QwikTreat Condensate Pan Treatment Tablets available at Amazon] to keep the line clean, especially if there's any slime or buildup.

4. Change Thermostat Batteries

A small but common issue is the thermostat. If it runs on batteries, swap them out to avoid any thermostat mistakes this winter.

Low batteries don’t always show a warning. What you usually see instead is the furnace turning on and off, the screen going blank, or the system not calling for heat at all.

This problem causes dozens of service calls every year, and most are fixed in seconds with fresh AA batteries, available at Amazon, or AAA batteries, available at Walmart.

5. Check the Flame Sensor

I also check the flame sensor if the furnace is five years or older. If the furnace starts but shuts off after a few seconds, the sensor is likely dirty, which is likely to make your heating system work harder.

You can clean it with a Scotch-Brite pad, available at Amazon. Don't use sandpaper – that ruins the coating.

6. Keep a Spare Hot-Surface Igniter on Hand

If your furnace is over 10 years old, it’s a good idea to keep a spare hot-surface igniter on hand. It’s the little part that lights the burners. When it goes out, the furnace won’t fire up at all. If that happens on a weekend or holiday, you’re stuck heating your house with the furnace out until someone can get to you.

The Emerson Hot Surface Ignitor on Amazon works with many models, but always check the number on your existing part first. Swapping it out is usually quick if you’re comfortable with basic tools. Just make sure the power is completely off before you touch anything.

7. Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear

Last, keep the area around the furnace clear. I need at least 30 inches of working space. Don't store cardboard, leftover paint cans, or laundry next to it.

I've seen filter doors blocked by storage baskets and bins, and even a Christmas tree jammed between the unit and the wall. That space isn't optional. It affects safety and service access.

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Wondering how long a furnace lasts? Our experts say anywhere between 10 and twenty years, but there are a number of things you can do to make yours last longer.

As an HVAC professional, I see the same heat-loss mistakes in homes all over America, leaving people shivering, frustrated, and paying far more than they should.

From unsealed crawlspaces to leaky HVAC ducts, small oversights can add up to energy wastage.

Luckily, each of the five most common heat-loss mistakes is easy to fix, will make your heating more efficient, and save you some money throughout cold winters.

5 Heat-loss Mistakes I Always Spot in American Homes

1. Unsealed Crawlspaces

I've seen a lot of HVAC units and associated elements across US homes as the founder of Air Conditioner Lab, and crawl spaces are one of the worst offenders for problems in a cold home.

In winter, vents and uninsulated crawl spaces act like a cold sponge under the house. Air seeps in and chills the floor above. If there’s exposed dirt, that moisture pulls even more heat from the air.

Insulating a crawl space is your best bet. Sealing vents with foam panels (available at Lowe's) and laying down plastic sheeting (6-mil, also from Lowe's, works well) helps block airflow and reduce heat loss. Some homeowners see a 15% difference in their heating bills after sealing their crawlspaces alone.

2. Leaky HVAC Ducts

You need to do more than just clean your HVAC system to keep it in good condition. Regular HVAC servicing is also a must if you want to cut energy bills. This can point out any leaky ducts that could be causing heat loss.

Ducts that run through attics, crawlspaces, or garages tend to leak the most. Warm air escapes through those small seams and never reaches the rooms it’s supposed to. I’ve seen cases where 20-30% of the heated air is lost this way.

Luckily, in most cases, you don’t need to replace the ducts. Just seal them with foil-backed tape from Amazon and mastic, from Lowe's. The biggest improvement usually shows up in rooms farthest from the furnace.

3. Attic Hatches

Many people focus on attic insulation but often overlook the attic hatch. If it’s unsealed or not insulated, it becomes a vent for rising warm air. I recommend adding foam weather stripping from Amazon around the edges and placing rigid insulation directly on the back of the door. This minor fix can prevent 20-25% of heat loss in that spot.

If you have pull-down attic stairs, adding an insulated zippered attic tent from Walmart makes a difference. These create a sealed envelope around the opening to stop warm air from drifting upward. They’re especially useful in homes where the attic access is near the main living space.

4. Worn-Out Weather Stripping

It is all well and good to draft-proof your home once, but these additions need maintenance to remain effective and continue to prevent heat loss.

Exterior doors and windows can become drafty quickly, especially in older homes. One simple test is to hold a stick of incense by the edges. If the smoke pulls inward, there’s a leak. Replacing the old strips with new rubber or foam weather seals takes under 30 minutes and stops heat from leaking out around the frame.

You can find self-adhesive rubber weather stripping at Walmart.

5. Recessed Lighting

Who knew that your lighting ideas could play such a large part in heat loss?

Recessed can lights, especially older ones, leak a surprising amount of heat into the attic. However, if they’re not rated for contact with insulation (IC-rated), you can’t safely insulate around them. Swapping them for modern LED retrofit kits from Amazon helps seal the opening and also reduces electricity usage. Some homeowners also install attic covers over them for extra insulation.

If you are not sure what type of lights you have or how to replace them, you can call a pro who can assess and complete any electrical work safely for you.

What to Shop

Even in a perfectly insulated home, there are some things that could be making your heating system work harder, ramping up bills unnecessarily. Fix these, too, for more affordable bills and a more comfortable home.

If your radiators are slow to heat, but you have tried bleeding them and adjusting your thermostat, it might not be your heating system that's the problem, but the furniture placement nearby.

Poor air circulation results in sluggish radiator heating and a strained boiler. Luckily, it is simple and free to fix, say our experts.

Here is the simple layout trick heating pros use for radiators to heat up faster and make heating more efficient in winter without spending an extra cent.

Moving Furniture Away Will Make Your Radiators Heat Up Faster

When trying to keep a home warm without turning up the heat, clearing the area around your radiators is essential.

Phil Oliver, co-owner of Air Treatment Heating and Cooling, explains 'Radiators use convection to distribute warm air, so blocking that flow with furniture or curtains can drastically reduce their efficiency.

'If you have a radiator, I recommend keeping at least 12 to 18 inches of space between it and any large pieces of furniture, such as couches, beds, or shelving units. Maintaining this space around your radiator will produce a noticeable difference in how evenly and quickly your room heats up.'

For that reason, having a shelf over a radiator is often not a good idea, nor are radiator covers – even if they look nicer aesthetically.

It isn't just furniture that impacts how quickly your radiators warm up your room, adds Scott Levene, VP at Levco. Dust can also impede heating, with thick layers making your heating system work harder and possibly being the reason why your house smells musty.

Getting rid of dust regularly is easier with a radiator duster, from Walmart, which is designed specifically to fit between those awkward radiator panels and fins. It is the best tool for cleaning behind radiators without damaging your appliance or your wall, and negates the rust and mold risk associated with the viral hack of pouring water between your radiator panels to clear debris.

Similarly, it is best to avoid leaving curtains hanging over a radiator when in use, as this traps heat and redirects it to the glass, resulting in significant heat loss. Opting for blackout roman shades from Target can be a more convenient option for window treatment ideas above radiators.

Putting aluminum foil behind your radiators can also help to direct airflow into your room for more efficient heating. Phil explains, 'Radiator reflector panels or heat-reflective foil [available from Amazon] on the wall behind the radiator to help reduce heat loss.

'These inexpensive panels reflect heat into the room, rather than letting it escape through the wall, which allows the space to warm up faster and helps to keep a home warm all day.'

Investing in a smart thermostat, bleeding radiators, and checking the pressure settings on your boiler can also help to boost your radiator's efforts and heat your home more quickly.

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Meet the Experts

In very old heating systems, it might be necessary to drain a radiator to remove sludge and boost efficiency. If you are not a fan of messy DIY, it might be time to call a pro for this task.

In the meantime, a stylish portable heater can help you zone-heat and reduce bills whilst staying cozy and warm at home this winter.

We may not even be in winter yet, but already extreme cold warnings – issued when temperatures are expected to drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period of time – have begun popping up across the US, with an Arctic front expected to bring the coldest air of the season so far next week.

While the essentials, like portable heaters and electric blankets, are as crucial as ever, what does an HVAC expert specifically urge homeowners to have on hand ahead of time?

Here, our pro shares his one non-negotiable item to prepare your home for a freeze.

The 1 Item Experts Recommend Having in Extreme Cold Weather

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

With colder weather conditions on the way, we're interested in which home rules to avoid damage in snow weather warnings that our experts swear by. For that reason, we spoke to Josh Mitchell, HVAC expert and founder of AirConditionerLab, to find out his top recommendation for keeping a house warm without turning up the heat.

'One item I always recommend homeowners keep on hand during extreme cold snaps is a plug-in thermostat controller,' he says, recommending the Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller, available at Amazon.

'This plugs into a standard outlet and allows you to control a space heater or heat lamp based on the air temperature. You just set your target temperature and plug your heater into the controller. It will automatically turn the heater on and off to maintain the room or space within the set temperature range.'

This makes it effortlessly easy to maintain the ideal room temperature, even in particularly cold weather.

'Most people overlook this, but it can help keep basements, garages, and equipment rooms from dropping below freezing without running heat nonstop,' he adds. 'I’ve used it in situations where maintaining a temperature of 40°F in a mechanical room was enough to protect sensitive HVAC parts like condensate pumps, mini-split lines, or backup furnace components.

'For best results, hang the temperature probe about halfway between the floor and the ceiling. Avoid placing it directly in front of the heater, as this can skew the readings. Set it a few degrees above freezing if you're protecting a utility room or mechanical closet.

'If you have a ductless mini-split,' a type of HVAC system which provides both heating and cooling without traditional ductwork, 'this controller can help manage backup heat in rooms where the unit might struggle during extreme cold,' continues Josh.

'Some systems begin to lose efficiency or spend more time in defrost mode when outdoor temperatures drop below approximately 17°F, depending on the model. By connecting a small space heater to the controller, you can maintain a safe room temperature without having to continuously run extra heat.

'If you're renting, this is easy to use without requiring any changes to the system. Just unplug it and take it with you when you move.'

For maximum efficacy, you can also arrange a room to maximise heat, which should also help you to cut energy bills, too.

Another recommendation that Eli Zimmer, director of operations at Luxaire HVAC Services, suggests is using electric blankets, such as the Homemate Electric Heated Blanket available at Amazon.

'The great thing about electric blankets is that they really don’t use us very much energy,' he explains. 'So, they can be a cost-friendly way to make your bed or couch warmer when you’re cold, rather than cranking up the heat.

'What I like to do is have an electric blanket on my bed, which I then turn on before I actually get in bed, because that gives it the chance to warm everything up. Then, I unplug it, because you don’t want to leave it plugged in while you sleep, as that can be a hazard.'

And, if you're wondering exactly how much it costs to run an electric blanket, they only use very little energy, so you won't need to worry about soaring energy costs by any degree. Zone heating is a great way to stay comfortable without cranking up the heat and your bills.

Additionally, Tamer Sayed, owner-operator of Tamas Mechanical Inc also recommends using a ceramic space heater, such as this Dreo Space Heater available at Amazon, which he says it 'reliable and affordable,' and features tip-over and heat protection.

'It lets you keep one “priority room” warm if the furnace struggles, without heating the whole house,' he explains, advising, to use it most effectively, 'Pick one room and close the door to trap heat. Place it on a hard, level floor with a three-foot clearance from bedding and curtains, and plug it directly into a wall outlet, with no power bars or extension cords.

'Set the built-in thermostat around 20°C [68° Fahrenheit], and turn it off when you leave or sleep. If you want a low-cost add, thermal blackout curtains cut window heat loss at night.'

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Meet the Expert

With cold weather on the way, it's also crucial to protect plants from frost ahead of time, and prepare your home for extreme weather.

Pet doors are a convenient way to give your furry family members a little more independence, but they also secretly invite in cold drafts, driving up energy bills all winter long.

From poor insulation, worn seals, and ill-fitting flaps, they are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in a home, our experts say.

Luckily, with the right draft-proofing tweaks, you can keep your home cozy and reduce energy costs without reducing your pet's free-roam space. Here's how.

How to Draft-Proof Pet Doors

1. Upgrade to a Multi-Flap Door

One of the best ways to make your home pet-friendly while cutting energy bills is to upgrade to a well-fitted, multi-flap pet door.

Geremey Engle, owner and inspector at Ellingwood Pro, LLC begins, 'First, it's useful to determine what type of pet door you currently have. Older, single-flap pet doors are made from plastic or vinyl, and they do not seal well. If you have one of these, consider upgrading to a double or triple flap pet door, which uses layered insulated flaps with magnetic or compression seals that close automatically after each use.'

The PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door, from Amazon, is available in three sizes (including an extra large suitable for dogs up to 220lbs), and has a triple flap thermal barrier designed to save up to three times more energy than a single flap pet door.

2. Opt for a Magnetic Seal

Forming a tight seal against cold air is the number one way to draft-proof an entryway. For pet doors, experts recommend using magnetic strips to ensure that flaps close completely after use, limiting cold air transfer.

Jon Gilbertsen, president and CEO at Chris Heating & Cooling, advises, 'Buying a magnetic-seal flap is the best solution because the door is designed to flap tightly shut every time your pet passes through. Standard flaps without magnets often leave a tiny open gap.'

If you do not want to change your whole pet door, you can buy magnetic tape from Walmart to apply to your existing frame and flap.

3. Seal the Frame

Knowing where to insulate your home to keep it warm all winter can drastically reduce your energy costs. Don't just leave your pet door at addressing the flap; the frame could be a common culprit for drafts, too.

Jon continues, 'But even a new magnetic flap-style pet door or blanket on the inside may not reduce drafts, especially if the air leaks through the frame, not the flap itself. If you don’t seal the edges properly, air will still be leaking through tiny gaps around the frame. Fill them with silicone caulk and add thin weatherstripping.'

The Gorilla Waterproof Caulk and Seal from Walmart is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, and is mold and mildew-resistant to keep the area your pet passes through hygienic.

4. Hang a Curtain

There are several curtain hacks for a warmer home, and they don't end at your windows. Jon suggests using a curtain to add an extra insulating layer to your pet doors without impacting their functionality.

He recommends, 'If your pet door is drafty but you don't want to replace it, you can just add a thermal curtain or just a piece of thick insulated fabric on the inside over the pet door. It's best to make it wide and tall enough to fully cover both the flap and the frame, and use hook and loop or magnetic strips to attach it to the wall or door around the pet door frame.'

These 100% blackout curtains from Wayfair are thermal insulated to help block drafts, and are available in 12 colors to suit every home, making it a stylish option as well as a functional one.

Be aware that covering the pet door may require retraining your pet to under the fabric to find their way out, so consider how easy this would be for them to adapt to before installing.

5. Create a Micro Entry

While multi-flap pet doors can reduce some air transfer to keep a home warm all day, the best option is to create an additional 'micro entry' around the pet door. This gives your pet two doors to walk through, blocking drafts more efficiently, says Wes True, general manager and operations at Pella Windows & Doors of Omaha and Lincoln.

He shares, 'If you can’t replace the door, work on putting in a micro entry. We have helped homeowners install a small, insulated panel or box built around the interior of the pet door (sort of like a vestibule) that is lined with rigid foam board and has seamed edges. It’s straightforward, but it’s effective at blocking obvious drafts and doesn’t block your pets from coming and going.'

This could be a good weekend DIY project if you are very handy, but for some, this will be a task to call the pros for to ensure it is correctly fitted, effective, and doesn't damage your door.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Pet doors can also be a security risk, especially in the winter months when the nights get darker earlier and we fill our homes with gifts. Sure up your property with the best security measures for your house to stay safe this season.

While temperatures are yet to plummet to freezing across the US, HVAC experts recommend preparing ahead and bleeding your radiators now to ensure they heat up quickly and efficiently when the time comes to switch them on.

It will not only boost heating efficiency, they say, but could help you catch defects that would otherwise leave you shivering mid-winter.

Here, we explain exactly why now is the time to bleed radiators, and how it can shave money off your winter energy costs.

Homeowners Urged to Bleed Radiators This October

As Eli Zimmer, director of operations at Luxaire HVAC Services, advises, you always want to get your radiator, or whatever heating system you have, prepped for the cold season before it actually hits.

In fact, it's a vital part of preparing your home for a freeze, particularly if you want to swerve any home maintenance mistakes never to make in winter.

'If there is an issue or some damage that you don’t already know about, for example, this gives you the chance to address it before temperatures really drop,' explains Eli. 'Even if there aren’t any issues or damage, it’s best to get everything prepared and in the best shape for cold weather ahead of time. That’s why bleeding your radiator now, or soon, can be wise.'

Doing so, adds Eli, will also ensure your radiator heats up properly when you switch your heating on. 'When you bleed it, what you're doing is releasing air that's trapped inside,' he says. 'This trapped air means that the radiator cannot fill completely with hot water, which ultimately prevents it from being able to heat effectively and evenly,' and makes it harder to keep a home warm all day.

Additionally, says Chris Hunter from ServiceTitan, bleeding radiators now will also help you to save money at home by cutting energy bills.

'It’s important to do it ahead of time for air to escape, helping your radiators heat properly when winter arrives,' he says. 'By making radiator bleeding part of your routine, you’ll keep your system running efficiently and avoid high energy costs.

Although it is best practice to bleed your radiators before turning the heating on for the first time in the fall, you can do it at any point, so long as the radiators are cold, assures Megan Doser, owner and CEO at Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric. This allows you to make the most of your energy use, she explains.

'Bleeding radiators later, when you already use your heating daily, won't do anything dramatic – you just end up bleeding your radiators anyway, but with more effort since you have to turn the system off and let it cool first,' she explains.

'Bleeding radiators means removing trapped air that blocks hot water from circulating properly in the first place, and this means your radiators radiate as much heat as they can, so you don’t need to raise the temperature on the thermostat more and more – you get the maximum heat output and energy efficiency.

'You don't need any fancy or expensive tools,' she continues, but you will need a bleed key. The RLECS Universal Opening Key available at Amazon is a very decent option, especially if you want a tool that does more than bleed radiators – like opening meter cabinets, adjusting water valves, or accessing control panels,' she suggests.

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Knowing how to drain a radiator can also ensure that your heating system runs efficiently, and it should be done regularly.

When it comes to your attic, poor insulation, hidden air leaks, and maintenance oversights can send your bills sky high.

Luckily, experts say addressing just three of the most common attic issues can drastically improve warmth while cutting energy bills. Here's how.

5 Easy Attic Tweaks to Save on Energy Bills

1. Seal HVAC and Plumbing Works

When it comes to keeping a poorly insulated home warm, every little helps. To prevent heat loss through your attic, start by sealing up any small gaps around HVAC and plumbing fixtures with good-quality caulk, such as the 3M Marine Adhesive Polyurethane Sealant from The Home Depot.

Ben Hubbert, co-owner of Wright Home Services, explains, 'Even small openings can let in hot or cold air and drive up your energy bills.

'Make sure air ducts in your attic are sealed and wrapped, otherwise you could be heating your attic instead of the rest of your house.'

2. Check Existing Insulation

Even the best attic insulation doesn't last forever. It is a good idea to add checking your insulation to your fall home maintenance checklist, looking for damage, mold, or any insulation that has moved.

John Parks, owner of Advanced Insulation System, explains, 'Insulating a home is the best thing we do for energy efficiency and temperature regulation, whether it’s an older home or a newer one.

'The best option is, by far, roof rafter insulation or top cord insulation. This refers to the actual underside of the roof. Installing insulation on the underside of the roof greatly improves and regulates the temperature of the attic space, which translates to much better efficiency for the home as a whole.'

For a double check in winter, you can also use ice and snow to check attic performance later in the season. Just remember to also ventilate your attic, even in the cold season, to prevent mold and mildew.

3. Insulate Attic Doors

When trying to make heating more efficient, you need to insulate your attic door. This simple addition can instantly block cold air transfer, potentially saving you hundreds on energy bills each year.

Uri Pearl, owner of Nealon Insulation, warns, 'Warm air will escape even a perfectly sealed insulation attic if that hatch or door is exposed. Without a proper cover, it’s basically like leaving a small window open to the attic.'

It is an easy weekend DIY project you can do yourself, Uri adds. 'You’ll just need a 2-inch rigid foam board [available at The Home Depot] cut to fit snugly over the hatch. Add some weatherstripping from Walmart around the edges to make it airtight, and you’ve just solved one of the most overlooked air leaks.'

During extreme winters, however, it can sometimes be beneficial to leave an attic door open during a freeze, especially if it is unheated, to protect your pipes from bursting.

The Govee WiFi Thermometer, from Amazon, allows you to keep tabs on temperatures around your home from your phone, so you'll know if temperatures get dangerously cold in your attic, and before pipes have a chance to freeze.

Attic Insulation Essentials

Meet the Experts

It isn't just insulation that has an impact on your energy bills. There are some costly mistakes diving up bills and reducing device lifespans you might be making, too.

With colder weather officially here, the risk of frozen plumbing and pipes rises sharply, as does the threat of leaks, irreparable damage, and expensive bills for emergency plumber call-outs.

So, how do HVAC experts protect their own homes? According to our pro, the Frost King Rubber Tubular Pipe Insulation available at Amazon is the unsung hero of pipe protection this winter and beyond.

Here, he explains why it's one of the best ways to stop pipes freezing.

This $25 Buy Could Save you $100s this Winter

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

I spoke to Josh Mitchell, HVAC pro and founder of AirConditionerLab for insulating pipes this month. He said, 'One simple fix I always recommend in October is adding foam pipe insulation to exposed plumbing, especially in basements, garages, or along exterior walls.

'Once nighttime temperatures drop below 32°F, uninsulated pipes can freeze in a few hours if there's no heat source nearby.'

For this, Josh recommends the Frost King Rubber Tubular Pipe Insulation available at Amazon.

'It comes pre-slit with adhesive edges,' he explains, 'allowing it to wrap neatly around copper or PVC pipes. Just cut to length with scissors and press the seam shut.

'It insulates the pipe and slows heat loss, which buys you time when temperatures drop fast overnight,' and should help you avoid frozen or burst pipes, and therefore having to know what to do if a pipe bursts.

In fact, says Josh, 'I've seen people avoid burst pipe damage just by insulating the five or six feet of exposed pipe near a foundation wall or crawl space. It's one of the cheapest cold-weather prep steps you can take.

'This is helpful for older homes, homes with crawlspaces, or properties where not every room is heated 24/7.'

Josh isn't the only one who thinks this is a brilliant solution for insulating pipes, either.

As one reviewer writes, it's 'Easy to work with,' and 'does the job.'

'Used this to replace rotting insulation,' they continue. 'It's very flexible – I was able to secure it around a couple of bends in the pipe without cutting it, using zip ties and electrical tape. It made for a fairly easy job without needing a service call.

'The adhesive is very strong and provides a good seal for the insulation.'

They also add a helpful tip: 'Be sure to fit the insulation on the pipe before you remove the tape and expose the adhesive. Good product – recommended if you need to replace your pipe insulation.'

Another reviewer adds it's 'easy to install, and worked perfectly,' while a third adds it's an 'excellent product.'

'What impressed me about this particular brand was the glue and peel strip,' they say. 'That is where the other brands lack. It's one of the most important things when installing that it peels easily and stays stuck together.

'I recommend it over the branded big-box chain stores that are selling. Comes sealed in plastic and boxed for protection also.'

For that reason, you won't need to call in a pro to help you install it, and instead can make use of some DIY tips to get the job done quickly and easily, even if you need to insulate a crawl space or any other typically trickier spot.

Importantly, continues Josh, 'Avoid wrapping pipes that are already damp or leaking. Insulation works best on dry, intact lines, and won't fix existing plumbing issues.' In those circumstances, you will need to pay for a plumber.

Once insulated, bolster the effectiveness of your tubular pipe insulation by considering the perfect temperature to run your heating to avoid frozen pipes, which is between 55 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

You should also take steps to protect an outside faucet from freezing, by covering any outside faucets, and ensure you know when to drip faucets, and exactly how to do it when the time comes.

All in all, these important steps will help you prepare your home for a freeze, winterize home plumbing indoors and outside, and keep a home warm all day, too.

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Meet our expert

You might also want to consider investing in some smart home improvements for winter, like draught-proofing and modern double glazing.

I grew up in a home that had an ugly space heater in every room, and so I vowed never to bring them into my own home, using heatpads instead for a bit of instant warmth before finally turning on the heating in the thick of winter.

However, with energy costs soaring – it’s going to cost the average American household over 7%, and in some cases up to 15% more to heat their home this year than last – I’ve been on the hunt for a cute space heater that doesn’t break the bank and won’t annoy me every time I look at it.

And voila! This cute and efficient $27 compact heater from Amazon is rounded in style, available in three colors, and looks modern. It’s a far cry from the bulky, boring space heaters of winters past, and will help keep you warm all day without sending your bills soaring.

This $27 stylish little heater is perfect for zone heating to keep costs low

This little heater weighs just two pounds, making it easily portable around your home, though, with its low price point, you could easily bag three for use across your home for under $100 and keep them near the spots you sit in the longer winter evenings, such as the sofa, in home offices, and bedrooms prone to cool spots. Just make sure you don't overload your outlets.

Josh Mitcell, HVAC technician of AirConditioner Lab says, ‘In most of the US, people start turning their systems on once indoor temps drop below 68°F consistently, especially in the mornings and evenings. That typically happens around mid-to-late October in the Midwest and Northeast, and early to mid-November in the South.'

This fall has been slower to cool compared to last year. September and early October ran about 2 to 4 degrees above average across much of the central US, according to Josh, which delayed the usual transition and will inspire hunts for adding warmth without sending bills skyrocketing.

Josh says, 'I’m seeing more homeowners using heated blankets, small space heaters, or lap warmers instead of turning on the whole system. In the Northeast and Great Lakes regions, people are waiting one to two weeks longer than usual to turn on the heat, compared to 2022 or 2023.

'In some parts of the US, natural gas prices are up 10 to 15 percent compared to last fall. Electricity rates have remained high in several metropolitan areas, particularly those where utilities increased their base rates earlier in the year. People are trying to avoid a spike in their heating bills by holding off as long as possible.'

Josh adds that running a gas furnace can cost $3 to $5 per day, depending on your region and insulation, explaining, 'Electric baseboard heat can be even more. Compared to that, a daily cost of $1-2 for a compact heater is easy to justify when you're only heating one or two rooms.

'A small heater like the QQT model draws 400 to 500 watts and costs under $2 per day with casual use. It’s ideal for bedrooms, home offices, or any other room you use regularly. It also features tip-over protection and an overheat shutoff, making it safer than older plug-in heaters.'

This stylish and affordable space heater will cost around $1.68 a day to run, based on eight hours of constant use. This was worked out using the following information:

This is a 1200-watt heater that uses 1.2 kilowatts of energy per hour. Over eight hours, it would use 1.2 kW×8 h=9.6 kWh. The total cost, therefore, based on the average residential electricity rate of 17.47 cents per kWh, brings the total cost to approximately $1.68.

Whilst HVAC experts, including Josh, advise turning the heating on when your house feels uncomfortably cold, it’s a toss-up between comfort, style and rising energy costs.

That’s why ‘zone heating’, warming up yourself and the space immediately around you, may help you keep expensive heating off for longer this winter.

Josh adds, 'I’m seeing more people this year close off unused rooms, run space heaters in the areas where they spend time, and only run their furnace in short cycles to maintain a base temperature. That kind of zoning approach helps keep energy use in check.'

And no rule says devices to help you with this have to be ugly and bulky. Hebe Hatton, Head of Interiors at Homes & Gardens says, ‘I will be the first to admit I often go for prettiness over practicality, so when I find a product that does both, I am a happy shopper.

'I want the more useful things in my home to be aesthetically pleasing too, and not interrupt my home's style. This QQT heater from Amazon isn't huge, which is its first pro, its shape and color also don't scream "heater". The deep green is very on trend for fall 2025 and the white option is ideal if you want something that blends a bit more into the background.’

It's not just nice to look at, either.

One happy customer labeled this buy a ‘little powerhouse’, and declared it to be quick to heat a space, ‘very quiet’, and a brilliant way to zone heat. In their five-star product write-up, they add, ‘It's a great little heater that is perfect for personal spaces. It's warm, efficient, safe, and quiet, and it comes at a very affordable price. If you're looking for a way to beat the winter chill, I highly recommend checking out the QQT Electric Space Heater.

The quiet fan noise and safety features, including a thermostat for an auto-switch off, enhanced safety plug, and anti-tip features, make it a safe bet for taking the chill off cold bedrooms this winter.

You can also draft-proof your home to stop heat from escaping, cold air from creeping in, and reduce the number of hours you need to run your heating type, in this case, a stylish little space heater.

What to shop

Given that four in five people (77%) revealed in a survey by Barker and Stonehouse that their interiors impact their mood, why not be more intentional with your heating choices?

Here are six further stylish and compact electric heaters to consider:

Using a heatpad is another affordable way to stay comfortable without heating up the whole room. It's a staple in my house and a very energy-efficient way to stay comfortable when the chill hits.

With energy bills showing no sign of dropping, I am on the hunt for small, affordable ways to make my heating go further for less in winter.

So when an energy expert told me I could potentially shave 10% or more from my annual heating costs with a humble $17 draft excluder from Amazon, I was all ears.

Here's how some simple draft-proofing could save you $100s on your bills annually.

How a draft excluder can help cut energy bills

According to Ethen Heine, president and CEO of Suntrek Solar, draft excluders are one of the most effective, affordable ways to stop air transfer, reducing heat loss under doors to cut energy bills.

This makes your heating more efficient, he explains. 'In many cases, your bills can be up to 10-15% lower. I have found that, for many households, a $20 excluder saves $100 to $150 in a single season. In my household, for example, draft excluders cut my furnace consumption by 12%.'

It isn't just a one-off, either.

One verified Amazon shopper also saved hundreds on their bills, claiming it worked so well they ended up buying three for all over their small apartment.

After their boiler failed and they were forced to use infrared heaters instead, they shared, 'Last year my bill was almost $800 for one apartment. So I put these up on the entry doors and the porch door, where most heat tends to get zapped. We have saved so much money, and my little apartment is toasty!

'My dad lives in the unit above me and argued that it wouldn't work. He's now a believer and has even convinced my aunt to buy some for her apartment.'

Their tip? Use some double-sided tape (available from Walmart) to attach the draft excluder to the bottom of the door for a flush finish, stopping all air transfer altogether.

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Meet the expert

Air transfer isn't the only thing making your heating system work harder. Everything from dirty vents to old air filters could be impacting your bills, too.

As the days get shorter and colder, the question of when to switch the heating on begins to arise.

There is no one answer to suit us all, but our heating pros advise that instead of turning to the calendar, you should tune into certain conditions in your home instead.

Here's how to work out exactly when to switch on your home heating types this fall to keep you comfortable and balance energy use.

When to switch heating on

The best time to start taking steps to keep a home warm all day will depend on several factors, including, but not limited to, the weather, your home and attic insulation, your daily activities, your health and personal preferences.

As a result, there is no one set date to switch heating on, says Reuben Saltzman, owner and CEO of Structure Tech Home Inspections. Instead, you should check the conditions in your home.

He explains, 'Once your indoor temps are consistently dipping below 65°Fahrenheit, or you're just plain uncomfortable, it’s time to fire up your heating system. The temperature range of 65-68°F is a sweet spot for comfort, moisture control, and energy use if you are looking to make heating more efficient.'

A small digital home thermometer, from Walmart, can help you keep tabs on your indoor temperature throughout the year.

Reuben continues, 'Another sign you want to look out for is morning condensation on windows or exterior walls.

'Cold interior surfaces drive condensation and mold, not just the outdoor temperature, so keeping the inside above that point matters. But when it gets very cold outside, you'll probably need to bump up the temperature on your thermostat to stay warm.'

Turning your heating on when you first notice these signs, rather than putting it off, not only keeps you healthy but also protects your home from damp. Plus, it is quicker and easier to warm up a home that is not absolutely frigid.

Importantly, don't forget to tackle these germ hot spots to clean before turning the heating on.

Heating essentials

Managing your home heating and humidity through winter can help you to stay cozy without the extortionate energy costs. Here are some essentials to help slash energy bills this year.

Meet the expert

Knowing when to switch the heating on isn't just important for comfort, it also helps you to achieve the perfect temperature to curb mold for a healthier home, too.

I have chronic pain, so the cold really bothers me. That’s why I’d usually be the first in line to flip the switch and turn my heating on as the cooler weather creeps in.

However, in a bid to keep my energy bills low, I have been reaching for my trusty $16 heatpad from Amazon, instead of the thermostat, whenever the chill hits me. HVAC pros confirm it costs as little as 5 cents a day to run a small one, and take it from me, it really makes all the difference.

It’s not only a great way to stay warm, but also to make heating your home more efficient, as it's easier and cheaper to warm yourself, than an entire house. A real winner this early in fall when that awful chill starts to settle in your bones, and an enduring winter comfort I cannot live without.

Why I’m using a heatpad to stay warm instead of turning the heating on

Thanks to my ridiculous mix of chronic illnesses, the cold hurts my joints, but too much heat makes me dizzy and can trigger migraines. That’s why I don’t mind my house being on the cooler side, as long as I am feeling warm enough.

That’s why I have been using Amazon heatpads for 20 years. It’s a great way to warm up achy areas, or just get cozy without overheating.

HVAC pro and founder of AirConditionerLab, Josh Mitchell, loves using his heatpad, too. He says, 'I’ve been using a small heat pad on my lap in the mornings and evenings, and yes, it really does cost next to nothing to run. Mine pulls around 50 watts, so even if I leave it on for five or six hours a day, it only adds up to about 4 to 5 cents. That’s way cheaper than heating the whole house when I’m just sitting in one spot.'

Josh also adds that using a heat pad is one of the most cost-effective ways to stay warm before turning on the central heat. He says, 'Most standard electric heat pads draw between 40 and 75 watts. If you run one for eight hours a day, that adds up to around 0.32 to 0.6 kilowatt-hours. At the national average electricity rate of about 15 cents per kWh, that’s 5 to 9 cents per day. Smaller models, especially those designed for lap or targeted body use, typically fall on the lower end of that range.'

I have a small one, as featured above, and it's more than enough for the entire day. In the mornings, I have it on my lap to keep me warm in my north-facing home office. In the evenings, I usually lie on the sofa and put the heatpad across my lower back or knees, where deep pain is setting in. Before I get into bed, I put the heatpad on to warm up my sheets.

Josh says that last one is a great way to avoid 'cold-sheet shock' and reduces the need to warm up your entire bedroom to find comfort during this seasonal shift in weather and temperature.

All this, coupled with the selection of machine-washable soft throws available at Walmart, in rotation, means I won’t be turning on my home heating for at least a few more weeks.

Josh reckons using a heatpad is a great tactic to keep your bills down. He says, 'Heating yourself directly instead of the whole room or house is a smart move early in the season. It reduces load on your HVAC system, especially when outside temps haven’t fully dropped but the house feels chilly.

'I’ve had clients delay turning on their furnace by two to three weeks simply by using spot heating like heat pads, heated throws, and warm bedding. That can save 10 to 15 percent off the monthly heating bill, depending on how much they run their central system.'

The great news is that heatpads only cost about 10 cents to run for a full 24 hours, so it’s super affordable and a way to keep warm all day.

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When using a heatpad, Josh advises, 'I always recommend double-checking that the cord is in good shape and the plug fits snugly. I also avoid placing anything heavy on top of it while it's on.'

He personally likes the Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL heatpad and the Sunbeam XpressHeat models, both available at Amazon. Josh says, 'Both stay under 100 watts, heat up fast, and have consistent temp control. They cost about 6 to 8 cents per eight hours of use.'

I'll add to that with my own final tip: Make sure to never fold your electric heatpad, whether it's on or off, to keep the heating elements intact and functioning well.

Meet our expert

When it finally comes time to turn on the heating, you might be surprised to hear that keeping the heating on all day, if you have a smart thermostat, will actually save you money over the course of winter.

You can also heat the garage to stop it from becoming a conduit for cold air to move into your home.

New York is famous for its bitterly cold winters, so as the temperatures start to drop, the big question becomes when to give in and turn on the heating.

Hold off too long, and you'll be shivering through cold mornings; put it on too early, and you risk higher energy bills before winter really sets in.

Here's what HVAC pros say about when to use your home heating types in New York so you can stay warm without spending a fortune.

When to turn your heating on in New York

Working out when to turn the heating on in New York and the most efficient heating schedule from there will depend largely on your personal preferences and routine.

However, as a general rule of thumb, it is a good idea to turn your heating on in early October or whenever the temperature drops towards the 50s – if not to heat your home, then to test the system ahead of the really cold season.

Robert Mazzacone, president and master plumber at Mazzacone Plumbing & Heating, says this is the case for both mini-split and heat pump systems, as well as oil or gas burners and furnaces.

'It is a good idea to turn them on early in the season to make sure everything is working properly,' he says. 'Once colder weather sets in, it can also be harder to get on a plumber’s schedule if there is an issue.

'You do not have to keep it running, but you want to know the system works before nights drop into the 40s. Too many homeowners wait until the first freezing night and then find out the furnace or boiler will not start.'

Although this might still sound too early for those of us concerned about saving money on energy bills, Landon Wimmer, CEO at Empower Home Services, says turning your heating on a little earlier could be the most economical way to run your heating.

He explains, 'From an energy standpoint, waiting until you truly need the heat will reduce your utility costs, but waiting too long will cause your system to work harder to catch up.'

This approach, along with improving home insulation, can make heating more efficient, adds Cory Lyons, brand president at Koala Insulation.

'Insulation acts as a protective barrier – not only against outside temperatures, but also against allergens, dust, moisture, and even noise,' all important considerations in New York apartments.

'If you notice inconsistent temperatures or sky-high bills, the culprits are often inadequate insulation, poor air sealing, and improper attic ventilation. In fact, nearly 90% of U.S. homes are under-insulated, meaning their insulation’s R-value (resistance to heat transfer) doesn’t meet modern standards for their region.'

Some simple draft-proofing tips, such as installing window insulating film from Walmart or weatherstripping from Amazon, around doors and windows, are quick and effective ways to address this issue.

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