Tips to Keeping Warm This Winter

It looks like the winter weather is on its way. We've been fortunate to have warm, pretty weather so far this season. But it looks like this week will be the turning point as far as weather goes. It's about to get cold in East Texas. Here is a list of ways to keep you and your family warm this winter, without a hefty electric bill.

Close off unused rooms. Do not heat them. There is no use heating a room where no one is. Save that heat for another room in the house.

Use rugs on bare floors. Hardwood floors are always super cold in the mornings and late afternoons. Using a rug does a fine job of keeping your feet warmer.

Let in some light. Open blinds during the day to let in the sun. Close them in the evening to add a bit more insulation. This provides just enough mid-day warmth that the heater isn't needed.

Use an electric blanket. There’s no need to heat the entire house when you’re asleep. There’s no need to even heat the bedroom. An electric blanket is cheaper and cozier.

Use space heaters. A portable radiator-type oil heater uses a lot of power, but not nearly as much as a furnace. They take a while to get warm, but once they’re going, the can heat a small space cheaply.

Bundle up. Stock up on cold-weather clothes: long underwear, sweaters, hats, scarves, gloves. With these you just bundle up and turn down the heat. And don’t forget the house slippers!

Eat warm things. Eat and drink hot food and beverages regularly. They provide both warmth and energy at relatively little cost.

If you have a fireplace - USE IT! There is nothing more relaxing than curling up next to your fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate, a good book, and a cozy blanket. It keeps you and the house warm as well.