Banish the drafts. Stay toasty and save on energy bills by blocking drafty doors with door sweeps or door snakes and warming up with rugs, throws and duvets. When was the last time you checked those window frame seals? Do they need fresh weather stripping or sealing? For even more energy savings, shut doors to unused rooms, move furniture away from heating vents and close the chimney flue when it’s not in use.
Change your HVAC filter. While we’re on the subject of heating, when was the last time you changed that filter? Air quality is important inside and outside your home. Breathe a little easier going into spring by changing your HVAC air filter in the hallways, ceilings, or wherever vents are located. While vents can vary from home to home, the process takes about as long as changing a lightbulb, and since a fresh filter increases your heater’s efficiency, you’ll save money, too.
Refresh your movie-watching zone. Winter is a good time to catch up on movies you missed in the theater or to binge-watch your favorite shows. So why not make your movie-watching zone as comfy and cozy as possible? Start by vacuuming the floors and upholstery (using a vacuum attachment) and by clearing away clutter. Next, assess your collection of movies and games, donating extras to charity. Finally, make sure there are plenty of comfortable pillows and throws and lighting that can be dimmed.
Get Smart. Speaking of dimming lights, you can dim or brighten things up with an upgrade to your living room and bedroom lights. You can control smart lights and anything plugged into a smart plug directly from your phone. Not only do these smart devices save you money, they can make your life easier (and spicier), too. With smart lights/plugs you can turn on the lights or start your morning coffee without getting out of bed. You can also find smartbulbs that add mood lighting for that big date with your valentine.
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