Winter began on December 21, 2025, and will transition to Spring on March 20. 2026, so we still need to be cognizant of ways to keep our living spaces as comfortable as possible.   Whether the outside temps are below freezing or as our regional rollercoaster weather forecasts hints at mild days.

Maximizing your home’s comfort in 2026 involves a blend of smart technology, strategic insulation, and cozy lifestyle adjustments. Here are several key points Cale Realty suggests you try to enjoy comfort this winter season.

  1. Heat Management
  • Setting ceiling fans to rotate clockwise on low speed creates an updraft that pushes warm air trapped at the ceiling back down into the living space.
  • Bring the warmth from outside inside by opening curtains on south-facing windows during sunny days to let natural warmth in. Close them immediately at sunset to add a layer of insulation against the glass.
  • Set your thermostat to 68°F (20°C) when home and lower it by 7–10 degrees while sleeping or away. Automating this with a smart thermostat can save up to 10% on annual heating costs.
  • Close doors and vents in guest rooms or storage areas to concentrate heat in occupied spaces. 
  1. Draft Protection and Insulation
  • Seal gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk. A simple “dollar bill test”—closing a door on a bill and seeing if it pulls out easily—can identify worn seals.
  • Use draft blockers or even rolled-up towels at the base of exterior doors to block cold air.
  • The use clear plastic film kits to create an extra air barrier on particularly drafty windows can be extremely helpful.
  1. Maintenance for Efficiency
  • Check your HVAC filters every 30 days during winter. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing the system to work harder and reducing comfort.
  • Make sure furniture, rugs, or curtains are not blocking heat registers or return vents.
  • Keep your chimney damper closed whenever a fire is not burning to prevent warm air from escaping like an open window. 
  1. Lifestyle and Decor Comfort
  • Moist air feels warmer than dry air.  Aim for 30–50% humidity using a humidifier or by placing houseplants around the home.
  • Use plush area rugs to insulate cold hardwood or tile floors. Swap light bedding for flannel sheets and weighted blankets to trap body heat more effectively.
  • Use warm-toned LED bulbs or candles to create a psychological sense of warmth during long winter nights.

Comfort doesn’t have to cost a lot, so by following some of these simple suggestions, you can stay warm and help your home’s energy efficiency too!