We’re deep in the grasp of Old Man Winter here in WNY, and with it comes icy winds, freezing temperatures, and the potential for soaring energy bills. But don’t worry, you don’t have to resign yourself to shivering in the cold or watching your hard-earned money fly out the window (literally!). With a little proactive planning and some simple winterizing techniques, you can keep your home cozy and your energy costs in check all season long.
Seal Out the Chill:
One of the biggest culprits of heat loss in the winter is drafts. Take a walk around your home and feel for cold air sneaking in around windows and doors. You might be surprised at how many little gaps and cracks you find! To seal these up, apply weatherstripping around door frames and window sashes. For larger gaps, use caulk to create a more permanent seal. Don’t forget to install door sweeps at the bottom of exterior doors to block drafts from sneaking in underneath. These simple measures can make a big difference in keeping the cold air out and the warm air in.
Boost Your Insulation:
Proper insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home and reducing energy waste. Start by checking the insulation levels in your attic and crawl spaces. If you find any areas with insufficient insulation, consider adding more. You can find insulation batts or rolls at most home improvement stores, and the installation process is relatively straightforward. For a more significant upgrade, you can also add insulation to exterior walls, although this is a more involved project that may require professional help.
Protect Your Pipes:
Frozen pipes can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, leading to costly repairs and water damage. Take steps to protect your pipes from freezing by insulating them with pipe wrap or foam insulation, especially in areas that are exposed to cold temperatures, like basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. For pipes located in unheated areas, like crawl spaces or garages, consider installing heat cables, which provide a gentle warmth to prevent freezing. During extremely cold weather, it’s also a good idea to leave a faucet dripping slightly to keep water moving through the pipes.
Maintain Your Heating System:
Your heating system works hard during the winter months, so it’s important to keep it in good working order. Schedule a professional furnace inspection to ensure it’s running efficiently and safely. A technician can check for any potential problems and perform necessary maintenance, such as cleaning the burners and checking the blower motor. Don’t forget to change your furnace filters regularly, ideally every 1-3 months, to improve air quality and prevent your system from overworking.
Embrace Energy-Saving Habits:
- Program Your Thermostat: Invest in a programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat that allows you to adjust the temperature based on your schedule. Lowering the temperature by a few degrees when you’re asleep or away from home can significantly reduce energy consumption.
- Layer Up: Dress in layers to stay warm indoors, and add extra blankets to your bed. This allows you to keep the thermostat set at a lower temperature without sacrificing comfort.
- Let the Sunshine In: Open curtains and blinds during the day to let in natural sunlight, which can help warm your home passively. Close them at night to prevent heat loss through the windows.
- Use Draft Stoppers: Place draft stoppers at the base of doors and windows to prevent cold air from seeping in. You can purchase these or make your own using rolled-up towels or blankets.
- Cook Smart: Use the oven less frequently during the winter, as it can generate a lot of heat and make your home uncomfortable. Opt for slow cookers, Instant Pots, or other appliances that generate less heat.
We Can Help!
Although there are many things you can do on your own to improve energy efficiency in your home, sometimes it’s best to let a pro tackle the bigger jobs. So when it’s time to upgrade to energy efficient windows, doors, or siding, get in touch with us for a free consultation!