New York in the winter can be fun and exciting. It can also be cold, and a challenge to stay warm within a budget. IDT Energy has some simple tips to keep you warm and cozy, and your pockets full.
1. Put a layer of shrink wrap, plastic film, over your windows. Fast, cheap and effective, adding this extra thermal layer helps keep the warm air in and the cold air out. The tools and supplies you need to do this yourself are easily available at most hardware stores, and the application can be done yourself. Covering your window in plastic creates an air pocket which insulates but at the same time allows the sun to shine in.
2. Because we feel colder in the winter there is a tendency to use more hot water. Our hot showers are a tad longer; we wash hands more often with hot water just to warm up. To balance out this extra hot water use it is a good idea to adjust the setting on the hot water heater. You might be able to lower the temperature even 20 degrees and maintain a high comfort level. Why not leave the temperature at this level during the summer as well? Expect your bill to heat hot water to go down about 10%.
3. If you have a southern exposure, take advantage of all the free solar energy right outside your windows. Pull open the drapes and let the ultimate heat source warm up your cold bones.
