12 Heating Hacks from the Past That Actually Work (and Save You Money)
Before modern heating systems and technologies, people had to get creative to stay warm in the winter. Many of the clever heating hacks used in the past worked well and saved money, even though they didn't use the newest technology.
- Tricia Quitales
- 4 min read
Before there were high-tech heating systems, people kept warm in the winter in simple but effective ways. These old-fashioned ways of heating not only kept you warm, but they also saved you money. This article talks about 12 tried-and-true ways that have been passed down from generation to generation to help people save energy and money on their heating bills. You can save money and keep your home warmer by following these easy steps, just like people did in the past.
1. Use Draft Stoppers for Doors and Windows
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Put draft stoppers on your doors and windows. This is one of the best and least expensive ways to keep your home warm. You can buy these or make them yourself and put them at the bottom of doors to keep cold air out. If you stop drafts, your heating system won’t have to work as hard to keep the temperature just right.
2. Close Off Unused Rooms
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People used to close the doors to rooms they weren’t using to keep the heat in the rooms they were using. This prevented energy waste by keeping the heat in smaller, more often-used areas. This method works just as well now to save money on heating costs and keep rooms warm.
3. Use Aluminum Foil Behind Radiators
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A common way to bring heat back into a room was to put aluminum foil behind radiators. The smooth, shiny surface moves heat away from the wall and into the room that needs it. This simple trick will make your heating system work better.
4. Hang Thick Curtains or Blankets Over Windows
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People used thick blankets or curtains to keep the cold out of their homes. The extra layer helps keep the heat inside and stops cold air from getting through the glass. If you live in an older home with drafty windows, this trick will still work.
5. Use a Space Heater Strategically
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Before central heating, space heaters were used to warm certain parts of the house. They were put in the living room, bedroom, or other room where people spent the most time. With this focused heating, you can lower the overall amount of energy your home needs to heat.
6. Seal Gaps with Caulking
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Caulking covered gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards so warm air couldn’t escape. One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your home warm and cozy is to do this. Even a small hole can let heat escape, so sealing holes and gaps can make a big difference.
7. Place Rugs on Floors
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Before most floors had carpet, people placed rugs on chilly floors to stay warm. Rugs make a space cozier and warmer by adding another layer of warmth, which is quite useful for houses with tile or hardwood floors that become chilly in the winter.
8. Use Hot Water Bottles or Heating Pads
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People used hot water bottles or heating pads to stay warm in bed in the past. These things work like blankets to keep your body warm without having to heat the whole room. You can stay warm all night by putting them on your feet or under your blankets.
9. Install Reflective Insulation in Attics
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This kind of insulation was put in attics to help keep heat inside the house. It helps keep the temperature inside more stable by reflecting radiant heat back into the living areas. It will save you money on heating costs in the long run, especially in colder places.
10. Keep Curtains Open During the Day
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Leaving the windows open during the day lets the sun warm the room naturally. To get the sun’s heat, people would let it shine through their windows and heat the house. Still, this is one of the easiest ways to add extra heat without using any power.
11. Cook or Bake to Generate Heat
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In the past, people warmed their homes by cooking or baking on cold days. The oven and stove make heat on their own, which can help warm up the nearby kitchen or rooms. This technique not only works, but it also makes your home smell great.
12. Install a Wood-Burning Stove or Fireplace
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Before central heating systems arrived, many individuals heated their houses with wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. Firewood warms the house, which is a comfortable and efficient approach to remain warm. A wood-burning stove can still be an affordable and eco-friendly way to warm your house.