Some Greener Ways to Stay Warm this Winter
With cool weather on the way you may be wondering just how you’ll be able to stay green and stay warm at the same time. You may be like most of us in North America, relying on fossil fuels to heat your home but it’s still possible to have a “greener” winter. 
And when it comes to home heating costs, “green” practices can also save money. Just think the average household spends $1,500 to heat and cool their home each year.
By making environmentally friendly changes to your heating habits you can significantly reduce your household energy costs.
Here are some simple ways to stay green and warm this winter.
1. Winterize your home. By making sure the weather stripping around your doors and windows is in good shape and working properly. Also you should check how well your attic is insulated. If you can see the ceiling joist you need more insulation. There are millions of homes in North American that are inadequately insulated. Having your home properly insulated could save you as much as 20 percent on energy bills.
2. Install a programmable thermostat that will automatically reduce heat settings when you don’t need as much warmth such as when you’re not home or when you go to bed. Homeowners can reduce energy bills by as much as $180 a year with a programmable thermostat, according to the government’s EnergyStar program.
3. Dress for the season. I am amazed every winter by the number of people I see dressed inappropriately for the season. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort to look good. You can look fashionable and stay warm by layering and choosing fabrics like cashmere, flannel or polar fleece and warm styles like hoodies, turtlenecks and cardigans. You can also set the heat back and still stay cozy by using afghans and throws to stay warm.
4. Use safe, green electric space heaters. Oil or kerosene heaters present tipping and burning hazards, plus they emit greenhouse gases. Modern electric space heaters are more energy efficient. For maximum safety and efficiency, choose a heater like the Toasty Toes or Cozy Legs flat panel heaters by Indus-tool. Thermostatically controlled, both products put the heat right where it’s most needed (on your feet and legs) rather than inefficiently trying to heat an entire area. They use less energy than an incandescent light bulb and are safe for use around pets, children or seniors. Check them out at www.indus-tool.com to learn more.
5. Rely on nature to help heat your home. Even though solar energy is gaining popularity, not everyone can afford to install solar heating panels on their homes. But you can open the drapes and blinds on sunny days and let the sun’s rays help warm the house. As well use your landscaping wisely by cutting back shrubs and trees that block the sun from coming in windows. And also by planting trees on the north side of the house to naturally insulate it from winter’s northern winds.
On average, homeowners will pay 20 percent more to heat their homes this winter, according to the Energy Information Administration. A few environmentally smart changes can make a big difference in how much you save on heating when winter’s bite takes hold this season.
