It’s
that time of year again when we condition our homes to protect us from the
bitter cold and withstand the winter’s harsh effects. Your location on the map
is one indicator of the winterizing techniques that will be most useful for
you. 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 the most popular
winterizing techniques:
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Check your exterior/interior doors and windows:
Inspect the caulk around doors and windows. Use weather-stripping around doors
to prevent cold air from seeping in. Replace cracked glass in windows. Swap out
any screen doors with storm doors, and install storm windows if available.
Also, closing the doors to rooms you do not use often increases energy
efficiency.
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Examine your roof, gutters, & downspouts:
Replace roof shingles or tiles in poor condition. Clean out your gutters and
spray downspouts with water to remove any waste. Consider installing leaf
guards on your gutters to keep water from damaging your home.
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Inspect your furnace:
Schedule an appointment to have a qualified heating contractor do an
inspection, clean ducts, and remove any blockages. Change furnace filters
monthly. Consider installing a programmable thermostat—this could be your best
investment. Check the Energy Guide label to determine the efficiency of the
heating system.
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Clean and check your chimney:
Perform a chimney sweep to clean out the soot. Creosote accumulation is the
main reason for cleaning a chimney. Cover the chimney top to keep out birds and
rodents. Store firewood away from the exterior of your home to prevent a
wood-burning related house fire. With rising fuel costs, using a wood-burning
fireplace can increase energy efficiency in your home and help you save on
heating bills.
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Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors:
Check the batteries on a consistent basis and keep some handy for unexpected
situations. Install the carbon monoxide detector near your furnace. Taking the
proper preventions can keep you safe from carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Consider insulating shades and window quilts: Replace standard
blinds with honeycomb or double-honeycomb shades. Not only do they provide
better insulation, they can add style to your home. Window quilts are just what
the name implies—an actual quilt that covers a window. Window quilts are
mounted in tracks above the window and rolled down. These also come in an array
of designs and complement the decor in your home. Both insulation techniques
can help keep in more heat, which means better energy preservation and a lower
heating bill.
Winterizing your home is easier than you think, and it is one surefire way to
help you and your guests enjoy the colder months of the year. When you add up
the benefits and savings of each winterizing technique, the outcome will
definitely surprise you—in a warm, cozy way!
