2024 is off to a cold start! With average daily temperatures rarely leaving the mid-30's in our area, you may be tempted to turn your thermostat up a few degrees... Before you do, read these simple tips to fend off the freezing feelings. These tips will also help you save a few bucks on your monthly electric or heating bill!

• Layer up to stay warm - thick sweaters and coats don't have to be saved for going outside in the cold. Utilizing warmer layers while indoors will keep you and your family feeling toasty on the coldest of days. As you layer up, tuck in your bottom layer to retain as much heat as possible. 
• Cover your head and feet - Heat escapes quickly through your extremities. Combat this heat loss by putting on thicker, warmer socks and a warm hat such as a toboggan or beanie. 
• Stay hydrated and well fed - Staying hydrated is just as important in the cold as it is in the heat! Water is always crucial, but in the colder months, you can supplement water with warm liquids such as soups, warm teas and hot cocoa. Avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol will also help your hydration efforts. Staying fed will also do its part. More calories are helpful in your body's work of keeping you warm.
• Open the curtains - If the sun is out, open your curtains and let the sunshine do it's work! If you are able, find a sunny spot to sit with warm blankets to warm yourself up as well.
• Proper home insulation - If the cold persists, make sure your home is properly insulated to ensure the heat in your house stays inside the house. Covering windows with clear plastic insulation, sealing gaps around windows or doors, and more will make quite the difference. For more information on insulation, visit https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/insulation

If all else fails and you must turn up your thermostat, make sure to increase the temperature no more than 2°F at a time. This will keep your heating system from using excessive energy as it works to increase the temperature of your home.