Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Inspiration Newsletter

Posted: 07 Nov 2010 05:06 AM PST

The fall season is officially here and winter will be right around the corner. If you haven't had to yet, eventually the cold will set in and heating your home will be inevitable. Everyone loves a cozy and warm home in the winter, but along with heating comes the reality of the energy costs associated with it. Here are 10 ways to help you save money heating your home to help keep your energy costs down.

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1.) Use a programmable thermostat: Even though your home has a thermostat, make sure you can program it when to come on and go off. When you depend on a person to regulate the thermostat, human comfort and error will cause you to use more energy. A programmable thermostat will automatically adjust – even when you are away from your home.

2.) Heat your home with zones: If your home is large or multi-story, consider having different heating units for different 'zones' or areas of your home. This will cut down on how long your unit runs, it will also allow you to only heat the areas of your home that is occupied. If you have a smaller home, and have few occupants that live in the home, this may be a viable option.

3.) Turn down the heat at night: The evening hours are the most expensive time to run your heat due to colder temperatures outside. Turn down your heat once your family goes to bed, and put heavier blankets on their beds. Since you are asleep, your body will make its own heat, and therefore will not need as much house heating.

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4.) Consider using space heaters: Instead of heating your entire home with a central heating system, use space heaters in individual rooms. Space heaters are less expensive to run and will heat up your space quicker than a central system. For safety, follow manufacturer's directions in placing the unit nearby items. Allow at least 3-4ft around the unit as a general rule.

5.) Run ceiling fans in reverse: Ceiling fans are not only for keeping your room cool. Warm air rises and can get trapped at the ceiling level. By turning a ceiling fan to the reverse option will bring the warm air down from the ceiling. For homes with vaulted or high ceilings, this is especially helpful.

6.) Insulate windows and doors: In the winter time, keeping your heat inside your home is the goal. Insulate windows and doors with weather stripping to avoid heat and air infiltration. Check the sweep below your exterior doors to ensure cold air is not entering below the door. Replace if necessary.

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7.) Have your heater system serviced: The efficiency of your heating system is largely due to how well it operates. Have your heating system serviced by an air conditioning and heating professional annually.

8.) Check your attic insulation: Much of the heat in your home is lost through the ceiling and then through your attic. Ensure that your attic has enough insulation and it is of high quality. R-30 value is recommended and for colder climates R-40 or R-50 should be used.

9.) Let the sun in: During the winter we tend to keep our window treatments closed, open them up to allow sunshine to warm your home. The sunlight will physically and mentally warm your home and your spirits!

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10.) Upgrade your appliances: If your appliances are more than 8-10 years old, they could be replaced with more energy efficient models. Different countries have energy efficiency programs initiated in their area. In the United States, Energy Star appliances have been tested to be 10% more energy efficient than the competition. Your energy costs are largely determined by how efficiently your appliances use energy. Yes, a no-brainer.

As the colder weather grows near, consider ways to make your home more energy efficient. Similarly to the summer months, the winter months can mean high energy costs. Use the 10 tips to see a difference in your monthly energy costs. Who knows, you may save money and help the earth at the same time. Bundle up, and turn your heat down, it will make you and your wallet happier.

Freshome readers what heat saving energy ideas do you have to share? At my home we actually turn the heat off at night and have it kick back on around 5:00 am so it's warm when we wake up!

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How to Create a Relaxing Reading Nook

Posted: 07 Nov 2010 04:23 AM PST

Is there anything more relaxing than curling up with a good book and escaping from the realities of your everyday life? A reading nook combines your favorite space in your home, a comfortable seating area and plenty of light. For many who enjoy reading the idea of trying to create the perfect space is time consuming and mentally overwhelming. Here are some tips for creating a relaxing reading nook in your home and leaving the cares of the world outside!

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What area of your home inspires/relaxes you: When you read you want the area in which you relax to be special for you. Whether it's the corner of the living room near the big beautiful window or it's a rocking chair on your porch, watching the world go by. You should pick a space that makes you feel great but also allows you to concentrate and engulf yourself into your reading.
Choose seating: A relaxing reading nook wouldn't be complete without comfortable seating. Depending on your décor and lifestyle this could be a couch or an oversized chair. Remember your nook should be personalized and comfortable. Depending on your seating, make sure it can be moved or adjusted depending on light sources and/or temperature changes in the room.

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Natural lighting: A sunlight source should be thought through when creating your reading nook. Your area should have the ability to let in natural light and avoid direct bright sunlight that can be harsh to your eyes and cause squinting or a glare. Consider using window treatments such as sheers to diffuse harsh light if needed.
Artificial lighting: In the evening, your reading nook needs to have warm and inviting light, as well as the option for a brighter light source. Floor lamps, wall sconces and table lamps are ideal next to your reading nook seating. For flexibility of lighting consider using a 3 way light bulb that can adjust in wattage. Test your lighting conditions at various times to ensure you have ample light. Try using lighter weight and color lamp shades to make the most of the light output.

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Add decorative touches: To make your reading nook complete bring in amenities that will make it special to you. A throw blanket and a chair pillow can help your seating area feel comfortable and adaptable. Ensure there is ample air conditioning and heat flow in your reading area. Add photographs, flowers and a side table for resting items beside your seating area. For larger seating areas, consider having book shelving, magazine racks or open wall shelving for your ample selection of reading material.

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A relaxing reading nook can be just what you and your home needs. Try to find an area that is tucked away from the noise and everyday bustle of your home. The quieter your reading area can be, the likelier you are to want to use it on an ongoing basis. If you have space to have multiple reading nooks, in your bedroom, living area and off of the den your family members won't all have to fight over yours!

Freshome reader's tell us what would make the perfect reading nook for you! Share with us!