During a frigid Ohio winter, you want your home’s heating methods as efficient as possible. From checking for drafts to pulling on an extra pair of socks, Cincinnati’s J.J. Smith Heating & Cooling says many homeowners are surprised at how simple it can be to stay warm at home during the winter. And, taking steps to improve your home’s insulation won’t just make you feel more comfortable—it will also help you lower your utility bills each month. Below, these heating contractors share three easy ways to keep your house warm all winter long.

3 Ways to Ensure You’re Warm This Season

1. Inspect Your Home for Air Leaks

Stop warm air from leaking outside and chilly drafts from seeping inside by inspecting the existing insulation of your home and any spots where air might be escaping. 

Perform a survey of your home’s interior and exterior, checking for gaps and cracks in walls, windows, doors, ceilings, floors, and baseboards. Inspect all the areas where two different building materials meet, such as the chimney, siding, outdoor water faucets and all exterior corners.

Inside of your home, pay attention to unexpected spots, such as electrical outlets, cable TV and phone lines, and any spot where the dryer vent passes through the wall.

2. Seal Gaps & Cracks

The doors and windows of your home are two main places where air escapes. Before replacing your existing setup, try caulking and adding weatherstrips to doors and windows that leak air.

You can create an airtight seal around your exterior doors by using vinyl foam weather seal. This self-stick tape has one adhesive side, making it easy for DIYers to install on their doors.

Double draft stoppers are another worthwhile investment for your home. At less than $10 each, these rest beneath doors and windows and help keep warm air inside and the cold front outside.

Seal any cracks or gaps, such as around water faucets or electrical outlet, with caulking or a similar material.

3. Pull on Layers

On cold nights, resist the urge to bump the thermostat up a few degrees by pulling on some warm layers instead. Fuzzy socks, wool sweaters, and flannel pajama pants are all great ways to stay toasty and comfortable at home without raising the heating bill. Make it a family affair by cuddling on the couch for a movie with some warm blankets and hot cocoa.

If you’ve followed these tips, but your home is still too chilly, contact the heating contractors at J.J. Smith Heating & Cooling, They will inspect your system to see what the underlying cause is. From regular maintenance to furnace repairs, visit their website to learn more about services that will help keep your HVAC system running smoothly during the colder months. To set up your free consultation with one of their heating contractors, call (513) 231-1156.