Are you spending your days wrapped in blankets with the thermostat cranked up… but still feel like you’re living in an igloo?
Being in an-always cold home isn’t just uncomfortable—it can drive up your heating bills and make the winter months unbearable. The good news? With a few simple fixes, you can create a warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient living space. We’ve rounded up 8 surprising reasons your home feels cold—and practical fixes to keep the chill out so you’ll feel cozier and save money on heating bills, even on the chilliest days of the year.
#1. The Problem: Drafty Doors and Windows
Over time, the weatherstripping around your doors and windows can wear down and small cracks can develop, creating pathways for air to seep into your home and make your living space feel frigid.
The Fix:
• Add or Replace Weatherstripping: Inspect the weatherstripping around doors and windows. If it’s cracked or loose, replace it with new adhesive-backed foam or rubber weatherstripping—an easy DIY project that makes an immediate difference.
• Install a Door Draft Stop: Slide a draft stopper on the bottom of exterior doors to block cold air from creeping in.
• Cover Window Air Conditioners: If you have a window air conditioning unit, it could be a major source of drafts. Tuck it in for the winter with an insulated cover that keeps out the cold.
2. The Problem: Inefficient Windows
Single-pane windows or windows without adequate insulation can let in the cold.
The Fix:
• Apply Window Film: Window insulation shrink kits create a barrier that keeps heat in and cold out. Simply tape the film to the window frame and use a hairdryer to shrink it into place.
• Use Heavy Curtains: Swap out lightweight summer curtains for thermal or insulated ones. They add an extra layer of warmth and prevent heat loss at night.
• Add Cellular Shades: Honeycomb shades trap air in their pockets, providing another layer of insulation for your windows.
3. The Problem: Blocked or Inefficient Heating Systems
Are you accidentally sabotaging your heating system? It can’t do its job if vents are blocked or filters are dirty.
The Fix:
• Check for Blocked Vents: Walk around your home and make sure furniture, rugs, or curtains aren’t obstructing your heating vents. Clear any blockages to allow warm air to circulate freely and add a heat and air deflector to direct warm air down and into your rooms.
• Replace Furnace Filters: A dirty furnace filter restricts airflow, making it harder to heat your home. Replace the filter every 1-3 months, especially during the heating season. Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency filter to improve air quality and system performance.
• Schedule Regular Maintenance: Have your furnace serviced annually by a professional to ensure it’s running efficiently.
4. The Problem: Poorly Insulated Floors and Walls
If the insulation in your home’s floors, walls, or ceilings is inadequate or has degraded over time, keeping heat in is like trying to keep water in a leaky bucket.
The Fix:
• Add Rugs: Hardwood or tile floors can feel especially cold. Adding area rugs or runners provides a layer of insulation and makes rooms feel cozier.
• Install Insulation: If you have access to your home’s crawlspace or attic, check the insulation. Adding or upgrading insulation can make a huge difference in retaining heat.
• Seal Gaps in Walls: Use caulk or expanding foam to seal gaps around pipes, wires, and outlets on exterior walls. These small gaps can let in a surprising amount of cold air.
5. The Problem: Leaky Ductwork
If your ducts have leaks, warm air can seep out before it makes it to your living spaces, leaving certain rooms feeling perpetually chilly.
The Fix:
• Inspect and Seal Ducts: Look for visible gaps or disconnected sections of ductwork, especially in unheated areas like basements or attics. Seal small leaks with duct wrap.
• Hire a Professional: If you find extensive ductwork issues, consider hiring a professional to inspect and repair the system.
6. The Problem: Heat Loss Through Doors
Even closed doors can let heat escape from one room to another, especially if they lead to unheated areas like a garage or basement.
The Fix:
• Install Door Sweeps: Attach a door sweep to the bottom of doors that lead to unheated spaces—it will prevent cold air from seeping in and warm air from escaping.
• Close Off Unused Rooms: If you have rooms you rarely use, close the doors and add a vent cover to concentrate heat in the areas where you spend the most time.
7. The Problem: Outdated Thermostat
If you’ve got an old or improperly programmed thermostat, you may be wasting energy.
The Fix:
• Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat: A smart thermostat allows you to set heating schedules that match your lifestyle. Lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away and set it to warm up before you wake or return home.
• Check Placement: Make sure your thermostat isn’t placed near drafts, direct sunlight, or heat sources, as these can cause inaccurate readings.
8. The Problem: Humidity Levels
Dry air feels colder than humid air because moisture in the air helps retain heat—so if your air lacks humidity, your home will feel colder than it actually is.
The Fix:
• Use a Humidifier: Adding a humidifier can improve indoor comfort and make your home feel warmer without raising the thermostat.
• Add Plants: Houseplants naturally release moisture into the air and can help maintain a comfortable humidity level.
