The spike in energy costs has made heating our homes a real challenge. But what if I told you there’s a way to brave the winter with a cozy home, all while spending just pennies? Yes, you heard that right: pennies! Forget shelling out big bucks—let me introduce you to a clever DIY trick that could change your entire approach to keeping warm.
A Costly Dilemma: Staying Warm Without Breaking the Bank
Let’s face it: with energy prices soaring, keeping our homes heated can feel like you’re throwing money into a bonfire (not the cozy kind). But before you resign yourself to wearing every sweater you own at once, there’s good news: simple, budget-friendly solutions are within reach. Instead of worrying about your energy bills, why not get creative with objects already lying around the house?
The Ingenious Candle-and-Flowerpot Heater
Alright, it may sound a little odd at first—a heater made from tealight candles and terracotta flowerpots? But trust me, this DIY trick isn’t just easy; it’s shockingly effective. Here’s how it works: the ingenious system is based on the principle of convection. The warmth from the candles is absorbed by a smaller pot and then distributed by a larger pot, allowing the heat to radiate through the room. The ambient air warms up as a result. It’s an ideal hack for small spaces or as a supplement to your main heating system. Plus, it won’t cost you more than a handful of coins.
- The small flowerpot captures the candle heat.
- The larger pot spreads this gentle warmth into the room thanks to convection.
- The result: a delightfully warm atmosphere for just pennies.
It doesn’t just sound good—it really works. Last winter, I put this system to the test in my bathroom, the one place in the house I’d usually dread stepping into during those frosty mornings. After 30 minutes, the difference was astonishing—the chill was gone, replaced by a much more pleasant atmosphere. And all that, just for a few cents!
A Warm Home Isn’t Just About Heat: Harnessing Passive Solar Energy
Did you know your home itself can help you fight off the cold, especially if you make the most of passive solar energy? Here are a few ideas to boost your comfort without reaching for the thermostat:
- Take advantage of sunny spots—open the curtains wide during daylight hours and let sunlight flood your rooms.
- Arrange water pipes so they’re exposed directly to sunlight. This nifty trick is especially good for reducing the cost of heating your domestic hot water.
Using these simple tips, you can squeeze every bit of warmth from those winter rays—an environmentally friendly win, too!
Practical, Sustainable, and Easy: Why Not Give It a Try?
Adopting these tricks isn’t just about saving on your energy bill. It’s about making a conscious choice to reduce your environmental impact. With a little creativity—and a dash of organization—you can enjoy a comfortable home all through winter, without watching your savings go up in smoke.
So, are you ready to try these simple and sustainable solutions for yourself? With a few candles, some flowerpots, and a willingness to experiment, you could find yourself grinning at your next bill (and maybe even growing a little fonder of your bathroom on cold mornings!).
After years of passion for interior design and modern furniture history, through C86 Design, I aim to highlight iconic pieces and the stories behind their creators. But sometimes, the tiniest household hack can be just as inspiring—especially when it keeps you warm for pennies!

John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.





