It’s once again time to prepare for a harsh Ohio winter. Luckily, for apartment dwellers, you don’t have to worry about furnace maintenance, as that is provided as part of your monthly rent. However, cold and drafts can creep into the most well-insulated building, which can lead to increased heating bills. There are simple and cost-effective measures renters can take to keep their apartments warm during the winter and minimize their energy bills.
Insulate Your Windows
Hang up thermal drapes that are designed to block cold air. They come in a multitude of fabrics, colors, and prints, so you are sure to find something you like, and are available online and at big box and department stores. You can also add weatherstripping tape around the windows and sliding glass patio or balcony doors to add further protection.
Stop Door Drafts
Cold weather can seep in under your front door. You can add a door draft stopper or door sweep to place against the bottom of your door. A DIY alternative is to fill an old tube sock with rice, sand, or polyester pellets and use that to block drafts. Get a doormat for outside your door. That way, you won’t track mud, slush, and salt into your apartment.
Use a Smart Thermostat
If your apartment isn’t equipped with a smart thermostat, ask your landlord if you can install one. You’ll instantly start saving on your heating bills. You can program the thermostat to reduce the temperature during the day while you’re at work and then raise the temperature in the late afternoon. Your apartment will be warm and cozy by the time you get home, and you won’t waste energy heating an empty space during the day.
Use Humidifiers
Central heat can be very drying. To combat that issue, run humidifiers in your main living space and your bedroom. You will breathe easier, and your skin and hair won’t feel so dry and itchy. You can find small humidifiers online or at big box stores at reasonable price points. Tip: To prevent limescale and mold from building up in the humidifier, use distilled water.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
When the threat of sub-zero windchills looms, drip your faucets overnight. The flow of water will keep the pipes from freezing. Landlords hate dealing with burst pipes and should remind tenants to drip pipes when warranted.
Hopefully, some of these ideas will help you winter-proof your apartment. All of them are budget-friendly and will keep you warm and your landlord happy. You can look forward to coming home to a warm apartment and reduced heating bills.
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