Whether you’re living in an apartment in Boston or an apartment in Denver, an outdated heating system can make colder months challenging. Fortunately, with a few practical strategies, you can stay warm and cozy while improving energy efficiency. In this ApartmentGuide article, discover 10 tips for combating the chill when you’re living with an old apartment heating system. Now, let’s get started.
1. Add thermal curtains to your windows
Dealing with an old apartment heating system may feel burdensome, however, principal interior designer of Your Colorful Home Interiors, Mehnaz Khan, recommends “adding thermal curtains to reduce heat loss while maintaining the aesthetic of the home.” Thermal curtains are an affordable and effective way to insulate your apartment. Mehnaz shares how they reduce heat loss through windows due to their “thick layers of fabric,” which provide an additional barrier against drafts.
During the day, open them to let in sunlight, and close them in the evening to retain warmth. This simple addition can enhance the efficiency of your old apartment heating system while making your living space feel significantly cozier.
2. Design your space with warm plush rugs
Cold floors can make your apartment feel less inviting during the winter. Adding rugs, especially those with a thick, plush texture, helps retain heat and provides an extra layer of insulation. Rugs not only improve warmth underfoot but also add aesthetic value to your space. Place them in high-traffic areas or near your seating arrangements to maximize their benefits.
3. Install weatherstripping tape for maximum insulation
Drafts entering through cracks in doors and windows can undermine your heating system’s efficiency. To combat this, Andy Lee, founder of Downtobid recommends “sealing all drafts with weatherstripping tape around windows and doors.” He adds how this solution can “provide immediate improvement in heat retention.”
Weatherstripping is easy to apply and widely available. It’s a tool that helps retain the heat generated by your old apartment heating system, keeping your home warmer for longer periods.
4. Snuggle beneath a quilt or within a sweater
Layering up is one of the easiest ways to stay warm in a chilly apartment. Quilts, fleece blankets, or wool sweaters trap body heat effectively and provide immediate comfort. Keep a cozy blanket on hand while watching TV or reading, and consider layering up with warm clothing indoors. This approach reduces your reliance on the heating system, which can lower energy costs.
5. Invest in a portable space heater
If your old apartment heating system isn’t keeping up with the cold, a portable space heater can be a valuable addition. Select an energy-efficient model with safety features such as tip-over protection or automatic shut-off. Use it to heat specific areas like your bedroom or home office. Be mindful of placement and never leave it running unattended for safety reasons.
Similar to a space heater, the team with Perfect Temp Heating and Cooling suggests investing in “a portable heat pump unit,” which is widely available and “costs around $600.” Their team adds that this unit “can efficiently heat an 800-square-foot area to 70 degrees.”
6. Rearrange furniture to maximize warmth
The placement of your furniture can impact how effectively your apartment retains heat. Keep seating areas away from drafty windows or doors, and avoid blocking radiators or vents. Positioning furniture near heat sources allows you to benefit from their warmth directly. These small adjustments ensure the heat produced by your old apartment heating system is distributed more effectively throughout your space.
7. Block a chilly draft with draft stoppers
Draft stoppers, also called door snakes, are simple yet effective tools for combating drafts at the base of doors. Use them to seal gaps in entryways or between rooms, minimizing the cold air entering your living spaces.
Sam with Greenwich, CT-based luxury custom furniture and drapery design services Tiger Lily’s, says, “Not only are draft stoppers cost effective and transportable so you can take them from room to room, they also offer a creative design opportunity to customize.” Sam adds that they often, “start at $10, are compact size, and malleable shape which make them perfect for creating slip covers.”
8. Cook homemade meals using an oven
Preparing meals at home serves a dual purpose: it warms your kitchen and fills your space with comforting aromas. Using your oven or stovetop adds warmth to the air while you enjoy a delicious meal. This method won’t replace your heating system but can complement it, especially in the evenings when you’re winding down from the day.
9. Stay warm with a local beverage and good company
Hot beverages like tea, coffee, or cocoa are an enjoyable way to stay warm during colder months. Sharing drinks with friends or roommates creates a cozy atmosphere and encourages bonding.
Kristin Jacobson, owner and manager of Austin Flea, a local artisan market in Austin, Texas says, “If you’re feeling chilly due to a drafty apartment, hop on down to your local artisans’ market and pick up a hot coffee while shopping local makers and vintage vendors.”
Sipping something warm helps regulate your body temperature and can make a chilly day feel more manageable. Pair this with other heating tips to create a comfortable environment.
10. Submit a maintenance request on faulty heating systems
An old apartment heating system that doesn’t function properly may require professional attention. Contact your landlord or property management team to report any issues.
Before getting to this point, Rita Razala with Tetra, a home service company assisting with replacing heating and cooling systems stresses the importance of performing regular maintenance on your system and apartment’s interior. Tasks that Rita recommends include, “checking your unit’s air filters and either cleaning or replacing them and checking the insulation of your apartment.“ Addressing heating problems early ensures you’re not left without warmth when temperatures drop, helping maintain a comfortable living space.
Stay warm this winter season
With these tips, you can optimize warmth in your apartment while enhancing the performance of your old heating system. Stay proactive and implement these strategies to create a cozy home during the colder months.