You’ve just escaped from the cold and chilly outside world that is 17 degrees Fahrenheit. To say that you are frozen would be an understatement. Your fingers feel like they are about to fall off as your body chatters its way into the comfort of your home. So, let’s crank up that thermostat! Think again.

The following are some eco-friendly tips on how to waste less heat while keeping your body nice and toasty:

• Turn down your thermostat while sleeping or when away from your home. According to the Department of Energy, anywhere from 5% to 15% of your annual heating bill can be saved just by turning down your thermostat by 10-15 degrees for a period of 8 hours.
• Install a programmable thermostat. If you live in an apartment, talk to your landlord about the benefits and cost savings these devices provide. A programmable thermostat will automatically adjust the heating and cooling temperatures for your living space according to the hours of your own choosing. See Energy Star’s page about the three different types of programmable thermostats.
• Ensure that the current location of your thermostat is at a distance from direct sunlight, skylights, drafts, doorways and windows for the best performance and efficiency.
• Be sure your home is properly insulated and weather-proofed – close-up those drafts.
• Break out those blankets! A soft, snuggly, well-insulated blanket won’t increase your heating bill a single cent – but it may lower it substantially. Another people-friendly option – cuddle with a buddy for extra warmth. And for added measure, make sure the next blanket you purchase is one made of natural, or organic fibers.
• Finally, I offer this piece of advice to anyone who lives in a multi-story house or apartment building. Try to have your bedroom on one of the highest floors. As you may already know, hot air rises. Unfortunately, the same applies to summer temperatures – but that’s why we have windows.