Winter months is just around the corner. While there is nothing we can do about the winter weather, there are steps you can take to make your home more energy-efficient while keeping it warm all winter long.

Here are some home improvement projects you can do to make your home more comfortable and cozy. These projects can help you save money and energy this winter.

Replace outdated furnace 

The average life span of a furnace is approximately 15 years. Because a new furnace can be quite expensive, most people wait until their furnace reaches the end of its life before getting a new one.

If your furnace is more than 12 years old, we recommend that you begin shopping for a new one. It may still be working, but it is likely that your heating bills are higher than they need to be. Older models are usually more expensive to operate since they use a lot of electricity to heat your home. New units are more energy efficient; hence, allowing you to save money in the long run.

Install a programmable thermostat

Heating your home can be quite expensive. And nothing is more frustrated than paying for wasted energy. In order to save money, we suggest that you turn the temperature up by a few degrees before leaving the house or before going to bed. You can turn up the heat once again upon waking up in the morning and when you come home at night. This works, however, if you remember to do so.

For your convenience, consider installing a programmable thermostat. With this gadget, you don’t have to turn the heat up and down manually. Plus, you are likely to save 3% on your bill with each degree you turn down the heat.

Insulate your water heater

Water heating accounts for 13% of your home’s total energy cost. This is because your water heater works constantly to keep water hot and ready whenever you need it. To make your water heater more energy efficient, consider adding a thick blanket or insulation around your water heater. This will help you save money and energy, not only during the winter but throughout the year.

Is your home looking old and dingy? Do you want to give your home a makeover, but you don’t have enough budget for it? The good news is that you don’t have to completely renovate the spaces in your home to give them a refreshed look. In fact, there are easy home improvement projects you can tackle on your own. Some can even be completed over the weekend. 

Here are 4 easy home improvement projects that will make your home look amazing. 

Replace bathroom or kitchen hardware 

This may be one of the easiest projects you can take on, but you’d be surprised how much of a design impact changing the hardware can have.  

When purchasing hardware for your cabinets, consider practicality over style. Also, try to look for handles that are of the same size and shape as your current ones. This will allow you to place them over the holes from your previous hardware. No filling and drilling required. 

Repaint the walls

We all know how a fresh coat of paint can give your space a new lease of life. It can give your drab, washed-out walls a burst of brilliant depth. Plus, it’s simple enough to do on your own. 

White is a great color for most spaces. It is excellent at reflecting light, which makes the room look bigger and more spacious. Plus, decorating is easier with white walls. Be sure to add some color with accessories, so the room doesn’t look clinical. 

Install kitchen backsplash

The area behind the stove is subject to heat and food splatter, while the wall behind the countertop and sink is prone to moisture. Protect your kitchen wall by installing backsplash. 

For many homeowners, installing a traditional tile backsplash may seem overwhelming. In this case, a sheet backsplash may just be your saving grace. All you have to do is to cut and glue the material. 

It’s an incredibly easy task that even amateurs can conquer with confidence. Plus, it will impart a premium look to an ordinary-looking kitchen. 

Update light fixtures 

Updating your lighting fixtures can have a significant effect on your home’s interior design without putting a dent on your budget.  

While the minimalist trend is on the rise, sometimes it’s fun to upgrade to bold and big in some areas. A large pendant fixture over your dining table or kitchen island would give the space a wow factor.