Heat energy consumption rises dramatically during the winter months.In order to keep warm, it is normal for homeowners to run their heaters all day and all night. Unfortunately, this coziness comes with a hefty price tag.
To save you from potential headaches of receiving a huge utility bill, one of the solutions we recommend is directly related to your home’s interior design. Here are some ways to slash your heating costs without sacrificing comfort, even in the middle of winter!
Install an Optimal Number of Windows
Did you know that you can save energy just by opening your windows fully for ten minutes at a time? If you install operable windows in your home and open them during the day, you can create natural air flow that not only leaves you feeling refreshed, but also ventilates and cools a room without using energy.
Be sure to close your windows before the day’s end. Temperatures drop at night; if you cool down your space too much, your heater will be forced to overwork and consume more energy than needed. For those who are uncomfortable with the idea of leaving your windows wide open, consider plantation shutters for an extra level of privacy.
Use Shades in Your Home
Shades are one of the simplest and most effective ways to save energy. What’s more, they can suit any window orientation. When installing them, make sure the shades are mounted close to the glass and upright against the adjacent wall. This helps create a tight seal that minimizes heat loss and prevents excessive warmth.
For added functionality, try selecting shades that come with dual layers of fabric. With a dark color on one side and a lighter color on the other, the shades can alternate based on the season. Darker hues will absorb heat during winter and lighter hues will reflect heat in summer.
Choose the Right Exterior Color
Your choice of colors for your home’s exterior can contribute significantly to the heat inside it. That being said, darker colors have a better chance of maintaining heat, while lighter colors can help the home stay cooler. Before you decide on your home’s exterior design, you will want to consider its location first. If located in a cold climate, go for darker exteriors. Warm climates, on the other hand, make light-colored exteriors worth considering.
Hang Up Draperies
Draperies are great additions to many homes as they can be hung up to frame up a pleasant view. In addition, proper placement and the correct materials can help lower your monthly heating costs. The impact of drapes is quite significant. Just a set of medium-colored draperies with a white plastic backing can reduce solar heat gain by over thirty percent.
For more useful tips, do not hesitate to speak to our expert team of interior designers who can do an in-home design consultation for you today!