10 Energy-Saving Tips for a Cozy Winter Rental - Enigma Properties (2024)

Winter in Milwaukee brings picturesque snowfall but also chilly temperatures. To keep warm, you might be tempted to turn up the thermostat, but this often results in higher energy bills. Fortunately, Enigma Properties has compiled ten creative hacks to help you enjoy a warm and inviting home without the need to crank up the heat constantly.

1. Embrace Smart Thermostats

A smart thermostat allows precise control over your home’s temperature. Set schedules to lower the heat when you're asleep or away, and warm up the space right before you return. With intuitive learning capabilities, smart thermostats adapt to your routines, optimizing heating efficiency and comfort.

2. Optimize Ventilation Systems

Contrary to popular belief, closing vents in unused rooms may increase energy consumption. Ensure all vents are at least 25% open and unblocked by furniture or curtains to facilitate efficient airflow and even heating throughout the home.

3. Deploy Door Draft Stoppers

A draft stopper, placed at the base of doors, prevents cold drafts from entering. This simple yet effective tool helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, providing an immediate solution to cold floors and chilly rooms.

4. Window Insulation Techniques

Plastic film or bubble wrap on windows serves as an additional insulation layer, minimizing heat loss. These affordable solutions are easy to install and remove at the end of the season, offering immediate results in preventing drafts.

5. Seal Windows Effectively

For a more permanent solution, re-caulk window edges and install weatherstripping. This not only seals potential gaps but also enhances the overall insulation of your windows. For those considering an upgrade, energy-efficient windows are worth the investment.

6. Harness the Power of Sunlight

Sunlight is a natural and cost-effective way to warm your home. On sunny days, open your blinds or curtains to let in the sun’s warmth. Once the sun sets, close them to retain the heat and provide an extra layer of insulation against the cold.

7. Reverse Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans aren't just for summer; they can also distribute warm air effectively in winter. By reversing their direction to clockwise, they push warm air downward, creating a more comfortable environment without adjusting the thermostat.

8. Maintain Open Interior Doors

Keeping the doors inside your home open helps in circulating warm air evenly throughout the space. This consistent airflow ensures that no room is significantly colder or warmer than another, maintaining a balanced temperature.

9. Invest in Additional Insulation

While it might require a bit more effort and investment, improving your home's insulation can pay off in the long run. Check the insulation in your attic and walls, and consider adding more if necessary to prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering.

10. Cook and Bake at Home

Using the oven can naturally increase the temperature in your home. After baking or cooking, leave the oven door slightly open (while off) to let the residual heat escape into your kitchen, providing extra warmth. However, exercise caution with this tip if you have young children or pets.

Winter in Milwaukee doesn’t have to mean skyrocketing heating bills. With these ten practical and straightforward hacks, residents of rental properties can effortlessly create a cozy, warm living environment without having to constantly rely on their heating systems. These tips not only provide immediate comfort but also contribute to long-term energy savings during the colder months.



Did you find these winter hacks useful? Share them with friends and fellow Milwaukee residents! For more tips and information on maintaining a comfortable and efficient home during the winter, stay connected with Enigma Properties. Explore our available listings if you’re looking for a well-insulated and cozy rental property this season.