In Cape Town, winter can get really bad, and the cold can be felt everywhere. One place where you can take measures to keep warm is in your home.

There are many tricks and tips for doing so without having to use an electric heater, which will increase your electricity bill and put strain on the national grid.

Here are some ideas for keeping warm this winter.

• Close all of your windows properly. Windows should be closed and air-tight. Open them during the day if the outside temperature is higher than the inside.
• Use cheap clear shower curtains over the windows that receive sun light. This will keep the cold air out, and the warmth from the sun will heat your house without cold air coming in. You could also cover your windows with clear plastic sheets to make them air-tight.
• Seal your doors. Check around the door frame and also under the door. You may want to buy weather stripping or a door sweep. If all else fails, minimise the draft by stuffing a towel at the bottom of the door.
• Close off any un-used rooms. The closed door makes that room another barrier between you and the cold outdoors. It also stops air from circulating so much, which reduces heat loss.
• Put up curtains. A set of heavy curtains can block a draft. Open them when the sun is shining and close them when it's not.
• Put down a rug or carpet. A carpet or a rug can insulate the floors and make walking around your home more warm and cozy.  
• Add insulation in the attic/ceiling. e.g. Aerolite, that insulates your ceiling from the cold in winter, and keeps your house cool in summer.
• Exercise; get in shape. 20 minutes of vigorous exercise can warm you up and keep you warm well after the exercise session. Also, a healthy body is generally more tolerant of the cold.
• Dress warmly. A beanie is your number one friend at a time like this. A large percentage of body heat loss occurs in the head region, so it is crucial to keep your head covered. A turtleneck sweater can work wonders. Dress in layers, especially with wool or cotton clothing. When you are sitting in one place for a while, pull a blanket over you. Wear socks on your feet to keep them warm.
• Cook. Steam will raise the moisture level in your home, making you feel warmer. So keep a kettle on a low boil when making coffee or tea. While you are at it, you may wish to make a soup or a stew in a boiling pot. Make cookies or a pie, too, as your oven will help to heat the kitchen. The kitchen will be warm while you are cooking, and then you can eat the hot food.
• Drink warm beverages. Make a cup of tea or coffee; this will help to heat up your body.
• Take a hot shower or bath and use oil or lotion on your skin when you get out. It's almost like putting on another thin layer of clothing.
• Use a hot water bottle. Great for warming your hands & lap while sitting; also put it under the covers at the foot of the bed at night.

We need to conserve electricity use it sparingly, so try the above tips and see how much you can save.

Page Created: 25 July 2011