When some of us think about winter in New England, our images transform from coziness to chills.  And although a great heating system is often crucial concerning whether or not we stay warm, there are other factors that circumvent the best of boilers (and allow heat to escape).

So what are some measures we can take to keep out the cold?  A few are relatively inexpensive.

• Evaluate the Windows.  There’s little doubt that updating drafty windows with expensive replacements will help keep the warmth in, but sometimes pricey windows are not feasible.  A frugal alternative?  Fill in the gaps.  Hardware stores sell reasonably-priced window plastic (at maybe $3 to $7 a window) to block cracks and help windows maintain a tighter seal.  Or, perhaps, you might prefer to caulk?  Caulking is cheap, simple, and can be used in a multitude of places.  Just clean the edges of your windows (or wherever the gaps are) and grab the caulk gun!
• Weatherstrip the Doors. Some doors do not tightly close at the sides and bottom; consequently, heat can escape.  Weatherstripping helps prevent that problem.  Metal and vinyl varieties are popular choices and very economical.  Decorative metals are slightly higher in cost than vinyl but often add an aesthetic flair.  Naturally, it is important for the strip to fit snugly.  In addition, it should encompass the length of the door jam.  Incidentally, you can also use weatherstripping on your windows, chimney, or almost any place you feel a chill!
• Check Your Fireplace.  Fireplaces are cozy; still, they can let in a breeze.  To ensure that your fireplace is not a heat-buster, have an inspector check the damper.  If the damper is worn, then heat could be escaping (and it might need replacing).  There’s actually a product called Chimney Balloon Fireplace Damper.  The concept behind this removable device (it is designed for insertion when the fireplace is NOT in use) is to stop warm air from traveling up the chimney.  Another fireplace thought?  Make sure the flue is closed when the fireplace is not operating!

There are low-cost ways to help keep heat “in” and cold “out” this upcoming winter.  Other suggestions?  Switch the lever on your ceiling fan so that it pushes the warm air down, open the drapes when the sun is shining brightly, and put fabric draft blockers at the bottom of doors (they come in creative varieties).

Winter may be coming, but with some simple planning, we can evade the draft!