Think your toes are numb now? Have you looked at your energy bill? Trust us, you won’t be able to feel your face. Athens winters can get cold, and uptown rentals in Athens Ohio are notoriously drafty. But you don’t need to take high heating costs sitting down. Batten down the hatches and save some moolah with these 3 winterizing tips for your student rental.
Plastic Those Windows
Some windows can be so drafty you’d hardly think they are closed. Your heater has to practically burn your bank account just to keep up. Get some wintering plastic at most hardware stores or Wal-Mart. The plastic is pretty easy to put on. Just lay it over the windows and seal it up with a household hair dryer. The living room will feel warm and cozy, and there will be less of a bill to split up amongst your roommates.
Close Basement, Attic Doors
Basements and attics can practically be refrigerators during the winter. Seal them up by keeping all doors routinely shut.
Get Smart
Smart technology has come a long way and is quite affordable these days. You can pay anywhere from $30 to $250 and still get something that is not only reliable but will save you lots of money. Split that up among your roommates, and we’re talking smart technology for less than a six pack apice. And you’ll easily make that back with the savings. There’s no reason to be blasting heat into an empty house, or return home from class to a meat cooler. Control the temps from your phone, right in the middle of your astronomy class.
Be Wary of Space Heaters
Not only can space heaters be an incredible fire hazard, they can also be a big money burner. Keep a limit on how often you use a space heater. Only use it when you’re home, and turn it off when the temperature is comfortable.
Wear Sweaters
Yep, your grandfather was right. The cheapest way to stay warm during the winter is still the same as it was in the 1800s. Wear a sweater. Pile on the blankets. Get cozy. It’s better for love and great for your energy bill.