As the snowflakes start to fall, and the cold weather approaches, it is time to make sure your home is ready for the upcoming winter season. There are a number of ways you can winterize your house, without having to spend a great deal of money. As an added bonus, many of them will result in reduced heating bills.
Cold, snow, and ice can cause damage to the exterior of your home, which can lead to expensive repairs. Inadequate insulation and seals can cause your home’s heating system to have to work in overdrive. This can cost you hundreds of dollars more in your winter heating bills.
Your Home’s Interior
Inspect your furnace, replace filters, and service if necessary – filters should be changed every 30 days.
Have your fireplace cleaned. Inspect the mortar between bricks in the hearth, and make necessary repairs. Place a screen on the chimney top. This will stop birds and rodents from entering. Store firewood in a dry area.
Check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Change the batteries.
Apply weather stripping, and caulking to doors and windows.
If you have older windows that are not insulated, you can apply a thin plastic film with two way tape, and a hair dryer. This can significantly reduce your heating costs.
If you have storm windows and doors, now is the time to install them.
Basements are prone to cold drafts. Fill cracks and cover the windows with plastic wrap for the winter months.
Add insulation to your attic and to your crawl space. Since warm heat rises, this can really help to reduce heating bills.
Install a programmable thermostat, which will allow you to create a heating schedule that is right for your lifestyle.
Your Home’s Exterior
Check the exterior of your house for cracks, which can allow cold air to reach the interior. Fix as needed.
To avoid freezing, shut off outside water, and drain your hoses.
Caulk any holes on the exterior
To avoid ice damming, lean the gutters of leaves and other debris.
Check the floor drain in the garage, and ensure it’s clear so the ice and snow can melt.
