Ya'll! Winter is coming. Like really just around the corner, some places close to where I live have even gotten snow already. Winter
utility bills SUCK. They are usually high no matter what sort of
things you try. There is no helping that there are fewer daylight
hours in the day so you have to turn on a light unless you are
accustomed to living in the dark or reading by candle light. Also, if
you don't turn the heater on, you're going to get some major
potential for mold because of the cold. If you are like me, and want
your house to be cozy but don't like that bill to do it, then here
are some cheaper alternatives that you can try out to keep yourself
warm but your utility bill low.
1.
Build a fire
I
know that not everyone can do this because they don't have a
fireplace, but even if you're outside, get a little fire pit, or make
one with some old bricks. Not only is it a great way to get rid of
your paper recycling, but you can stay warm, toast marshmallows, and
keep your utility bill low. Also, some places make fake fireplaces
that you can simply plug into the wall that heat and look like real
fire but it's all-electric, or gas. Option three; Set your house on fire then you don't have to worry about the utility bill at all.
2. Leave the oven door open
After
cooking dinner or baking cookies, or whatever you're making in your
oven, leave the oven door open so that the heat can warm the house as
it cools down. If you have children or pets, you will want to think
of the best safety precautions for your family, but this is a great
way to use that heat. Our kitchen is always gated off because Lil' G can reach the knobs. I actually do not want him to burn down my house, and it keeps my pups pinned.
3. Snuggle
Grab
the hubby or boyfriend. Grab the kids. Find your fur-baby. Or grab a
blanket and a book and snuggle on the couch while you watch a movie
or read. The closer you are, the more body heat you'll generate to
warm each other. It's a great idea for some together time with your
loved ones or by yourself. Creating body heat while the heat is
turned down will keep you warm but the house won't be so hot.
4. Add layers
Who
says that you can't wear your sweats and a hoodie in the living room
while you chillax at 2 in the afternoon? No shame in it. It's pretty
comfy actually. If you're especially chilly, add a pair of long johns
or tights underneath your sweats and you'll be throw off
layers in no time. Chicken (as Moose calls him because of his speech problems) wears long johns almost all year long because he always thinks he's cold. I think it's in his head cuz he never feels cold.
5. Time for your workout
If
you're moving around doing your weight loss yoga, Tae Bo, or buns of
steel, you're gonna work up a sweat. Then, you'll be wishing it were
a little cooler in your house. The more you're moving, the less
you're gonna notice the cold.
6. Bedtime Exercise
Obviously, this is only an option for the adults in the house, but need I say more?
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