Are high heating bills putting a chill on your winter fun? Tackle these quick and affordable DIY projects to keep the cold out, the warmth in, and your wallet happy.
1. Install Window Insulation Kits
Drafty windows are one of the biggest culprits of heat loss in a home. Our window insulation kits are a quick and affordable solution when new windows are not in the budget. These kits include clear plastic film that you can easily attach to your windows with double-sided tape. Once applied, just use a hairdryer to shrink the film, creating a crystal-clear airtight seal that prevents heat from escaping and cold drafts from sneaking in. Before you get started, watch this video for easy installation tips.
Time: 15-20 minutes per window
Tip: Make sure to clean the window frame before applying the tape for the best adhesion.
2. Seal Cracks and Gaps with Weatherstripping
Doors and windows often have small gaps that let cold air in and warm air out. Weatherstripping is a simple and effective fix for these leaks. Foam tape, rubber seals, or V-strip weatherstripping install around doors, windows, and any other area where air is leaking to create a snug seal. Read this article to figure out which weatherstripping product to use for your project.
Time: 10-15 minutes per door or window
Tip: Check the attic hatch or pull-down stairs, too—these are often overlooked spots for air leaks.
3. Add Pipe Insulation
Exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, or garages can lose heat, so your heating system has to work harder—and it puts pipes at a greater risk of freezing during a cold snap. Tubular foam pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install: Just cut the insulation to size and slip it around the pipes, then remove the adhesive backing and press it together to seal. We even make pre-formed tees and elbows to make the project even easier.
Time: 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of pipes
Tip: Watch this video before installing. [Link to the “How to Use” video at the bottom of this page: https://www.frostking.com/products/pipe-duct-insulation/self-sealing-38-wall-for-tees-and-elbows]
4. Seal Ductwork
Leaky ducts can waste lots of heat, especially in unheated areas like attics or basements. Use our Foil and Fiberglass Duct Wrap to seal and insulate ductwork so warm air reaches your living spaces efficiently.
Time: 1-2 hours
Tip: Our foil and foam duct wrap combines the properties of two popular insulating materials in one handy roll. Install it foil side facing out.
5. Use Draft Stoppers
Drafty doors can be a major source of heat loss. Slide a simple draft stopper under the bottom of the door to block cold air from entering your living spaces.
Time: Less than 5 minutes
Tip: You can use our Double Draft Stop on windows too—just cut it to size to fit the width of your window.
6. Insulate Your Attic Hatch
Attic hatches are a common source of heat loss. Add weatherstripping around the edge of the hatch and attach rigid foam board insulation to the back of the hatch to stop warm air from escaping into the attic.
Time: 30 minutes
Tip: Find more ways to air seal your attic here.
7. Switch to Thermal Curtains
Thermal curtains or insulated drapes have a thick lining that helps block drafts and retain heat and can significantly reduce heat loss through windows. Simply hang them and close them at night to keep the cold out.
Time: 5 minutes to hang
Tip: Open the curtains on sunny days to let in natural heat from the sun.
8. Caulk Around Windows and Doors
If you notice small cracks around window frames or door casings, a fresh bead of caulk can seal them effectively. Use caulk labeled for indoor and outdoor use.
Time: 15-20 minutes per window or door
Tip: Choose clear caulk for a clean look or paintable caulk if you plan to touch up the trim later.
9. Install a Door Sweep
A door sweep is a strip of material attached to the bottom of a door to physically block drafts. Most door sweeps are easy to install and can make a noticeable difference in keeping heat in.
Time: 15-30 minutes per door
Tip: Our Self-Stick Door Sweep is the easiest to install—just cut to size, peel off the adhesive backing, press it into place, and you're done.
10. Use Area Rugs on Bare Floors
If you have hardwood or tile floors, an area rug acts as an additional barrier against cold air seeping up from below so your rooms (and your feet!) stay warm.
Time: Minutes to unroll and place a rug
Tip: For maximum impact, choose thicker rugs with a thermal backing or use a rug pad.
11. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Did you know ceiling fans can help keep your home warmer in winter? Set your fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed to push warm air that rises back down into the room.
Time: 2 minutes per fan
Tip: Look for a small switch on the fan’s motor housing to reverse the direction.
These 11 quick and affordable projects will go a long way towards lowering your heating bills and making your home more energy efficient—so roll up your sleeves and get to work!
