Electric bills can soar quickly as the colder weather sets in. In places like Washington D.C., the weather can become absolutely bone chilling during the depths of winter. Homeowners can keep control of their bills, and their thermostats, by using alternative methods of keeping warm during the colder days.

Layering Up

One of the first recommendations is to layer clothing in order to stay warm. A room can be ten degrees cooler, yet completely comfortable, when more layers of clothing are worn. This can make a very big difference in the cost of the electric or gas bill. Put thick comforters or quilts to use on beds during the night hours, as they can keep people warm even when wearing very little clothing.

Fire Up the Fireplace

The fireplace is one of the most underutilized sources of heat in many homes. If the homeowner has access to cheaply priced firewood or has lots of great timber on his or her land, the fireplace is a great way to fight through the cold temperatures. Make sure the fireplace is maintained annually with a chimney sweep Washington DC to keep it operating safely. Fireplaces that see a lot of use must be kept clean for safety reasons.

Using Solar or Geothermal Heating

Geothermal heating, which focuses on water heated by the earth, is an environmentally friendly, cost effective method of heating the home. This method can also be used to cool the home during the hotter seasons, as well. Solar heating methods can be even cheaper, though. There are many different ways to capture and utilize solar energy for heat, with some clever plans involving soda cans coated with black paint. This would only capture heat during the daylight hours, making the fireplace a more popular option during the night.

Keeping the family warm during the winter does not have to be incredibly expensive. Keep the dial turned down on the central heating unit to save money, and find other frugal, creative ways to stay warm!