Stop Winter Drafts: Expert Strategies for a Cozier Home
Cold weather outside is one thing, but feeling freezing indoors where warmth and comfort should reign is entirely another. If your heater and blankets are failing to keep you cozy, the culprit is often unwanted drafts sneaking into your living space. According to the Department of Energy, approximately 30% of a home's heating energy is lost through windows alone. However, windows are just the beginning. Experts reveal several other reasons your home may feel colder than it should and provide actionable solutions to address them promptly.
Window Air Conditioning Units: A Common Draft Source
Katie Whitaker, founder of the New York City-based home repair business Handyma'am, identifies window air conditioning units left installed over winter as a frequent cause of chilly interiors. "It's a box designed to move air, so it will inevitably do that," Whitaker explains. While bringing the unit inside for storage is ideal, this isn't feasible for everyone, especially renters with limited space. For those who must keep their A/C unit on the wall, Whitaker highly recommends purchasing a weatherproof indoor and outdoor cover. "These covers keep out bugs, mildew, unwanted growth inside the machine, and most importantly, they block drafts," she emphasizes.
Vent Management: Keep Them Open for Efficiency
Shanika Whitehurst, associate director of product sustainability, research and testing at Consumer Reports, warns against closing air vents in unused rooms. Many people close vent grates during summer to reduce cooling in specific areas and then forget to reopen them come winter. "This makes your HVAC system more inefficient," Whitehurst notes. "Simply reopening those vents can restore proper airflow and warmth."
Radiator Issues: Drainage and Clearance Are Key
Radiators are meant to heat homes quickly, but performance can decline if too much water accumulates inside. "The more water that builds up, the less room there is for hot steam and air to pass through effectively," Whitaker clarifies. Draining the radiator—typically by turning off power to the boiler and water intake valve before opening the drain valve—can resolve this. Renters should request this service from their landlord. Additionally, ensure furniture like sofas or chairs aren't blocking radiators, as they can absorb heat meant for the room, Whitehurst advises.
Furnace Filter Maintenance: A Simple Fix for Better Heating
Furnaces, common in many homes, distribute warm air but may struggle if filters become clogged with dirt or debris. "A blocked filter restricts proper airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder," Whitehurst explains. Regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing filters, not only enhances warmth but can also reduce energy bills. "If you haven't checked your filter recently, it's time to get it cleaned," she suggests.
Curtains and Sunlight: Harness Natural Warmth
Courtney Klosterman, home insights expert at Hippo home insurance, highlights the value of passive solar techniques. "Even without intentional passive solar design, you can use low-effort tricks to capture the sun's heat," she says. Keep curtains or blinds open during the day to let sunlight in and close them at night to retain warmth. Avoid planting evergreen trees south of your home, as they can block sunlight.
Floor Insulation: Rugs Add Warmth and Comfort
For those living on lower levels or basements, chilly floors are a common issue due to heat rising. "On bottom floors, the floor is often overlooked," Whitaker observes. "Putting rugs down can make a significant difference." She recommends adding a thick woolen rug pad to improve heat retention, especially if barefoot walking feels like stepping on ice.
Doors and Windows: Seal Gaps to Block Drafts
Drafts often originate from doors that aren't hanging properly. "If you feel a draft, trace it to its source and block that hole," Whitaker advises. Using a door draft stopper is an effective solution; for a DIY approach, fill old tights or leggings with rice, sand, or beans and place them at the gap. For drafty windows, plastic window film or thermal curtains can reduce air infiltration. These minor adjustments require no major replacements but collectively enhance home temperature significantly.
By addressing these common issues, homeowners and renters alike can eliminate drafts, improve heating efficiency, and enjoy a warmer, more comfortable living environment throughout the winter months.
