The snowy, icy winter weather presents new challenges to your home and your energy bills. But by taking a few steps to prepare your home for the cold, you can save money and maintain the quality of your home.
Winterize your home this year by taking these steps:
Change the Furnace Filter
The air filter in your furnace can become blocked by dirt and dust. Changing the filter helps air move smoothly through your furnace, reducing energy demand and helping your home stay toasty.
Change the Direction of Your Fans
Heat rises, which means a lot of the heat from your vents gets trapped by the ceiling. This air doesn’t help you stay warm and can mean your heater runs longer. If you have ceiling fans in your home, you can help push this warm air down by running the fans in reverse. Most ceiling fans have a small switch to change the direction of the fan, making this a simple way to save money.
Caulk Your Windows and Doorframes
Overtime, windows and doorframes can start to spring leaks, letting in the cold winter air. You can use caulk or weatherstripping to fill these small gaps, keeping the chill out. You should also check areas where pipes or wires enter the house as these areas can spring leaks, too.
If your windows have many leaks, you can also use inexpensive window insulation kits to cover windows in plastic. These kits are easy to use and can significantly lower heating costs.
Insulate Your Pipes
Feel the water pipes inside and outside of your home. If you find pipes that are warm, it may be good to insulate them with pipe foam. Insulation helps keep the heat in, keeping your water warmer in the cold months. Pipe insulation can also keep your pipes from freezing during the particularly frigid months.
Tune-Up Your Heater
Your utility company may offer free heater inspections and tune-ups, if you call early. Your furnace’s manufacturer may also provide free tune-ups each year. These inspections can help your furnace run as efficiently as possible and let you know when it is time to purchase a new heater for your home.
Stock Up on Salt
If you know you are likely to get snow and ice this year, go ahead and purchase salt for your driveway or sidewalks. Having salt ready to go when those first flakes fall can make it easier for you to clear these areas later.
For all your home winterization needs, from caulk to insulation, visit Blue Ridge Builders Supply in Blue Ridge Shopping Center in Charlottesville
