A little bit of simple science goes a long way.
You may wonder how things we talked about doing earlier — like opening curtains or switching your fan direction — can make a real difference in winter. The answer is simple: these steps help your home hold onto heat, which keeps you warm and lowers your energy bills.
Here’s why each tip works.
1. Sunlight Gives Free Heat
Sunlight is natural warmth.
When you open your curtains on sunny days, the sun heats your home at no extra cost. Closing the curtains at night keeps that warmth from escaping.
Plus, south-facing windows will always collect the most sunlight.
2. Warm Air Rises — Fans Help Push It Back Down
Warm air tends to float up toward the ceiling.
When your fan spins clockwise on low, it gently pushes that warm air back down where you can feel it.
This makes your heating system work less.
3. Bleeding Radiators Lets Heat Flow
Radiators sometimes hold pockets of air inside.
That air blocks the hot water that should move through the whole radiator.
By bleeding the radiator, you release the trapped air so it can heat evenly again.
4. Insulating Hot Water Equipment Stops Heat Loss
Water heaters and hot water pipes lose heat as they sit.
Wrapping them helps keep that heat inside, so your system doesn’t have to work as hard.
This can cut heat loss by 25–45%.
5. Small Steps Add Up to Big Comfort
Even one or two of these tips can help keep rooms warmer.
Together, they can reduce drafts, lower energy waste, and make your home more comfortable all winter long.
Want help understanding your home’s heating system?
The Bronx-Brooklyn Energy Hub offers free support to help you find ways to save energy and stay warm. Connect with us and we’ll show you how.
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