Vent Placement

A heat source in your basement is essential for cutting down on your heating bill. If your furnace or utility room is not located in your basement, you will need to vent your heat source properly for maximum airflow. Most standard household furnaces are vented when installed to distribute heat to every room in the house. If your house ventilation system is not set up to heat your basement area, you may need to add ductwork or rework the existing ductwork to properly ventilate into your basement. The result will keep the basement warmer and reduce the risk of the thermostat triggering the furnace to come on prematurely.

Entryways

Sealing off entryways leading into your basement can help cut winter heating bills. Properly sealed doors and windows will help keep warm air in and cold air out. Seal any windows in the basement area completely for the winter. You can use weatherizing caulk to create an air-tight seal, which is a very effective insulation method. You may also apply plastic to the sealed windows to prevent drafts. Doors should remain shut at all times when not in use, especially if the basement door is near a door to the outside. In some cases, if you do not have a lot of heat in your basement, leaving the door open to the upstairs where there is a nearby heating vent air duct will help drive warm air to the basement.

Insulation

Proper insulation in your entire house is the best solution for reducing your heating bill. Blown in cellulose insulation throughout the attic and exterior walls of your home can help trap heat inside. Rolled insulation is often used in basements to keep pipes and heating ducts warm.

Precaution

If you think your basement is too cold or drafty, you may have considered an alternate heat source. Be cautious when using any type of unventilated heating source, such as a space heater, kerosene heater or wood stove. Having a heater in your basement may violate fire codes in your area, especially if the basement has only one exit. Always use safe, effective techniques to keep your basement warm and your heating bill low.