Issue date: 11/19/09 Section: Currents

Media Credit: Gillian Ekern Covering windows with plastic (a process done by using a hair dryer to shrink plastic taped to windows' edges) and placing a towel beneath exterior doors are two ways to preserve heat during the winter and save money on monthly energy bills.

As the falling leaves will soon turn to falling snow, it's important for students living off campus to make sure their homes are geared up and weathered appropriately for the harsh Wisconsin winters that we are all too familiar with. Not taking the right steps in weathering a home could result in a frigid semester.

Senior Jimmy Burg said his college home is ready to take on the upcoming winter.

"I think we've done all we can to make sure we stay warm," Burg said.

A method Burg uses to stay warm is placing a towel underneath his bedroom door to keep the heat in, he said. Aside from that, he's covered his windows on the outside and inside with plastic wrap. He also said he uses heat from the oven to get an extra bit of warmth.

"I always make sure to leave the oven door open after I've used it," he said. "I'm taking all the heat I can get - every bit counts."

Senior Seth Stauber said he uses plastic outlet plugs to keep out any unwanted cold airflow from entering his apartment. The small plastic plugs are great for covering up any outlet not being used and can be found at any hardware store for under $5, Stauber said.

Stauber also uses thermal curtains on top of plastic-covered windows to help ensure that no cold air sneaks in, he said.

"I like to make sure my bedroom door is closed before I leave to secure the warm air," Stauber said.

Senior Andy Dercks prefers to dress in layers while inside to save money on his heating bill, he said.

"Blankets and layers are the way to go," Dercks said.

Dercks also uses space heaters and window caulking to stay warm, he said.

Liz Wolf Green, media spokesperson for Xcel Energy, said there are numerous ways students can keep their homes warm at an affordable price.

Continued...

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