Ways to Keep Warm Without Electricity

Windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in homes, especially in older, historical houses, which are common across the St. Louis area. When cold air seeps through thin glass or small cracks, indoor temperatures can drop quickly.

Installing heavy, insulated curtains can dramatically reduce drafts and help trap warm air inside. Thermal curtains help create a barrier between your living space and freezing outdoor temps. Be sure to close them when the sun sets to retain as much warmth as possible.

For a quick DIY solution, hang blankets, quilts, or sleeping bags over large windows and exterior doors. You can also use bubble wrap as a temporary window insulator by spraying a light mist of water onto the window and pressing the bubble wrap against the glass to block cold air.

Proper home insulation plays a major role in keeping your house warm without electricity. If you suspect a winter storm is on the way, or if you worry you may have a broken heater, insulate your home by:

• Sealing cracks around doors and windows
• Using draft stoppers along the bottom of doors
• Closing off unused rooms to concentrate heat in the center of your house
• Placing towels or blankets along window sills where cold air leaks

If you have access to attic insulation or weather stripping supplies, these small improvements can also make a big difference.

If and when the power goes out, you want to be sure you’re wearing warm clothes. Layering clothing is an effective way to stay warm when indoor temps drop. Try a moisture-wicking base layer, like long underwear or a thick long-sleeve shirt, along with sweatpants and warm socks. Wear a warm hat, a scarf, and a jacket for extra warmth.

If you’re still feeling cold, wrap yourself up in warm blankets and sleeping bags to regulate and maintain body heat.

One of the simplest and safest ways to warm up without electricity is by using a hot water bottle. If you have access to a gas stove, grill, or camp stove (used outdoors only), you can heat boiling water and carefully fill a hot water bottle. Place it under blankets or at your feet to stay warm for hours.

Always handle boiling water carefully to prevent burns, and keep hot containers away from small children.

Even during freezing temperatures, sunlight can provide ample amounts of natural warmth. If you don’t have electricity and need to heat your house, you can try heating your home with the sun’s natural rays. It’s a free method that can make a noticeable difference, especially if you’ve been without power for an extended time.

To capture the sun’s heat, during the day, open window curtains on all south-facing windows. This will allow sunlight to heat interior spaces. Once it gets dark, close the curtains to trap the built-up warmth inside.

Trying to heat your entire house without electricity is difficult and inefficient. If possible, select one room or a small area in the center of your house to designate as the warm space. Once selected, close all doors to unused rooms and hang up blankets around the doors to block off any cool air. You can also seal vents for additional insulation.

Concentrating body heat and any alternative heat sources in a smaller space helps prevent rapid heat loss, even during long power outages.

Tending to your body can also help you stay warm without electricity. Eating a warm meal and sipping on warm drinks can help maintain internal warmth.

If it’s safe to do so, use boiling water to prepare hot meals like oatmeal, canned soup, and instant meals. You can also make a pot of tea to share with family members.

Preparedness is key for homeowners in colder climates. Being proactive reduces stress and keeps your family members safer when outages occur. Before winter arrives:

• Stock emergency blankets
• Keep extra insulation supplies, such as blankets, weather strips, and curtains
• Store firewood
• Maintain alternative heaters if you have them
• Install carbon monoxide detectors and regularly check that they work