AEM Mortgage Minute with Deanna Daughhetee

Keep Your Home Efficient this Winter
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
It’s that time of year again when we condition our homes to protect us from the weather and withstand the winter’s harsh effects. It’s a good idea to consider techniques that not only make your home more energy efficient, but also save you major dollars. Here are some popular winterizing techniques to help you get started:
  1. Check your exterior/interior doors and windows: Inspect the caulk around doors and windows and use weather-stripping to prevent cold air from seeping in. Also, closing the doors to rooms you do not use often increases energy efficiency.
  2. Inspect your furnace: Schedule an appointment to have a qualified heating contractor do an inspection, clean ducts, and remove any blockages. Consider installing a programmable thermostat—this could be your best investment.
  3. Consider insulating shades and window quilts: Replace standard blinds with honeycomb or double-honeycomb shades as they provide the best insulation. Window quilts are another option which offers energy preservation and in turn, a lower heating bill.