How to Keep Your Home Warm All Winter Long
Posted on: 2018-05-01
Just because the temperature has dropped doesn’t mean your energy bill needs to go through the roof. A few quick changes and repairs are all you’ll need to maximize savings while making sure your home stays warm and toasty this winter.
Use Thermostat Timers
Most people aren’t in their homes all day every day, so use that to your advantage and turn down the heat when people are gone. Dropping the temperature during the workday can lead to big savings each month. If you don’t want to come home to a chilly house, simply set the timer to start warming things up 30 minutes before you’re due home.
People generally prefer a colder sleeping environment, so you can also consider turning down the furnace a bit at night. Again, you can avoid a cold walk to the shower by setting it to heat back up 30 minutes before you wake up in the morning.
Insulate
Up to 25% of a home’s heat is lost through the roof. Keep that warm air in by installing proper insulation in your attic. While you’re at it, have someone check your wall insulation. While replacing or installing insulation can be pricey, the alternative is wasting money each month on heating a home that isn’t equipped to stay warm.
Check & Replace Weatherstripping
Torn or worn down weatherstripping around your doors or windows creates the perfect space for drafts to enter your home. Make checking your weatherstripping part of your winter prep checklist to save money on lost heat. Changing the weatherstripping is an easy task to DIY, simply pull off the old strip and fit the new one into the groove. Just make sure you get the right fit for your door.
Seal Holes in Exterior Walls
Gas lines and other pipes that enter your home will often have space around them. These are usually filled some sort of caulking; however, caulking is known to break down over time. These newly formed holes are a great way for cold air to sneak into your home (not to mention they’re ideal for insects and rodents, too). To seal these holes, try using expanding foam. This will ensure an airtight seal, and has a longer lifespan than caulk.
Keep Your Furnace Maintained
Keeping your furnace well maintained will help keep it running at peak efficiency and minimize the chance you’ll need repairs. Over 70% of all HVAC repairs can be prevented with proper maintenance.
Parabola Developments is a general contracting and home building company that offers quality service at an affordable price. For a free onsite consultation, give us a call today.
