Despite everyone, especially Alaskans, loving the sun, winter is here. Keeping our homes warm can cost a lot of money, especially as fuel prices rise.

So, here are some ways to keep your home as warm as possible without breaking the bank.

1. Shut the doors of rooms you don't use

That extra space that you don't even use is waste of energy. Turn off radiators in rooms that aren't in use, and make sure you keep the doors shut to keep the heat in vital areas.

2. Close all of your curtains at night

If your windows aren't double-glazed, closing your curtains can help you keep the warmth inside. You can use thicker curtains to make it more effective.

3. Let the light in

When the sun goes up during the day, keep the sun shining through your window and let the warmth of the sun enter your home. This will help you keep your home warmer without relying too much on your heater.

4. Mind the gaps in your home

Any cracks and gaps between your windows, floors, walls and/or doors can leak heat. It is important to seal them shut. Using inexpensive insulating strips, pieces of cloth or even blankets that are no longer in use can be a good help to filling in those gaps. You can use a silicon-based filler or even rolled up newspaper to cover gaps between the floor and skirting boards, especially if you have no flooring insulation. If you have an unused fireplace, make sure the flue is closed, or you can also consider getting a chimney balloon, since this is cheaper than paying the bills.

But, be sure to keep your air vents open to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

5. Regulate your home with a thermostat

Using a thermostat to control temperature of your home is a great help not just to help you keep the right temperature in your rooms but also to keep your bills low. Letting the room get too cold and needing to pump up your heater higher from time to time uses much more energy than just regulating the same temperature for a long period of time. You can also use it to lower the level of heating when you’re not around to help you save.

6. Clean your gutter

Making sure water can flow freely through your gutters will help you prevent icicles and ice dams from forming later.

7. Keep them efficient

Keeping your water heating particles and sediment-free can keep it efficient. This is free and can not only help you save electricity use but also can improve longevity.

As per your HVAC, simply changing filters can significantly improve its efficiency and longevity. This is a win-win.

Hope these tips help your home to be winter-proof without breaking the bank. Do you have any other tips? Share them below!