With winter creeping closer, it’s time to start preparing for the cold weather, snow, and ice. As the temperatures begin to drop, energy bills typically begin to rise as you try to stay warm. Not only can greater energy consumption wreak havoc on your bank account, but it can also be detrimental to the environment. What can you do?

Just because winter is on its way, that doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your eco-friendly habits for comfort. Here are a few tips that can help you to stay green this winter.

Lower Your Thermostat

When the temperatures drop in Connecticut, it’s tempting to crank up the heat. Doing so, however, increases your energy consumption (and your monthly energy bills). You can still turn your thermostat up, but don’t turn it up quite so high. Even just a few degrees cooler than the temperature you would normally choose can make a big difference.

Consider Solar

Another great way to reduce your dependency on traditional energy is to invest in solar panels. With connecticut solar power, you can run your home using completely clean and renewable energy. You can keep your home warm in the winter while still keeping your energy bills down.

Seal Leaks in Your Home

If you have leaks in your doors, windows, or attic, all of the warm air that your furnace creates can quickly escape. As a result, your furnace needs to work even more to maintain a constant indoor temperature.

Take a look around your home and check for gaps and leaks around door frames and windows. Investigate your attic and basement. Seal all of the leaks that you come across. This will help to keep warm air in and cold air out so that your home can maintain a more consistent, comfortable environment.

Close Rooms You Don’t Use

Do you have a spare room or two around your home that you don’t use much? If so, close the doors. There’s no sense in heating rooms that won’t see much (if any) activity. Close the doors to unused rooms to reduce the amount of space that your furnace needs to heat.

Get a Humidifier

The air can get pretty dry in the winter, which can lead to dry skin and respiratory problems. You can help to keep your air comfortable by running a humidifier.

You can also help to increase the humidity in your home by investing in a few indoor houseplants. House plants boost humidity, they look pretty, and they don’t require any energy consumption to do their jobs.

Add Some Area Rugs

Hardwood and tile floors can be cold underfoot, which can be rather uncomfortable and make you feel chilled all over. Consider adding a few area rugs around your home. Rugs look great and they help to keep your feet from touching cold surfaces.

Shop Second Hand for Your Winter Wardrobe

You can’t spend all winter cooped up indoors. Eventually, you’ll have to travel outside, whether it’s to go to work, take the kids to school, or run some errands. This means you’ll want to dress warmly.

If you need a new winter wardrobe, shop second hand. Find a local second-hand store or two and browse around. You might be surprised at the great winter clothes you find and how much money you save.

If you do want to purchase new, look for organic apparel. Organic cotton isn’t exposed to the same dangerous chemicals that conventional cotton is. You can also select greener materials like fleece, wool, or hemp. You can also look into clothing that is made locally and sustainably.

Winter might be coming soon, but that doesn’t mean that you need to give up on your eco-friendly lifestyle. With just a few simple adjustments, you can stay cozy and warm all winter while still reducing your carbon footprint.