As the temperatures drop, keeping your home warm becomes a priority—especially when you’ve got little ones to look after. In Oregon, where winters are often wet and chilly, preparing your home for the cold can save money and keep your family cozy. Here’s how to ensure your home stays warm and safe this season.

1. Seal and Insulate Your Home

Cold air creeping in through cracks and gaps can make your home drafty and uncomfortable. Start by sealing windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk. If you’ve got a drafty front door, a simple door sweep can work wonders. Don’t forget to insulate your attic and walls to keep the heat where it belongs—inside your home.

2. Upgrade Your Heating System

In Oregon, energy-efficient heating systems like heat pumps are a great choice. Ductless heat pumps, in particular, work well in homes without existing ductwork. Not sure where to start? The Energy Trust of Oregon offers incentives and guidance to help you upgrade to a more efficient heating system.

Visit energytrust.org for more details.

3. Use the Sun to Your Advantage

Even in Oregon’s cloudy winters, sunlight can help warm your home. Open curtains during the day to let the sun’s rays in, and close them at night to keep the heat from escaping. For even better results, consider thermal-lined curtains for added insulation.

4. Keep It Cozy Without Overworking the Heat

Encourage your family to bundle up indoors—think fuzzy socks and warm sweaters. Add rugs to cold floors and toss cozy blankets on couches for extra warmth. If you’re using a space heater, make sure it’s in good working order and follow safety guidelines: keep it away from flammable materials and never leave it unattended.

5. Tap into Local Resources

Oregon has programs designed to help families stay warm efficiently. For example:

  • Weatherization Assistance Programs: These programs help low-income households with insulation, draft sealing, and other energy-saving improvements.
  • Energy Trust of Oregon Incentives: From upgrading furnaces to improving insulation, these resources can make your home more energy-efficient without breaking the bank.

Check out what’s available at oregon.gov.

6. Fire Safety First

If you use a fireplace or wood stove, keep your family safe by maintaining it properly. Clean chimneys regularly to prevent buildup, and never leave a fire unattended. Teach kids about fire safety, and keep a fire extinguisher handy just in case.

With these tips, you can keep your home warm, comfortable, and safe all winter long. By preparing your home and using the resources available, you’ll ensure your family stays cozy—and your energy bills stay manageable. After all, the less you’re worrying about the cold, the more time you can spend making warm memories with your loved ones.