Ways Winterizing Your Home Can Help Save You Money

When the temperature starts to drop, many of us pull out coats, check out tires, and dig out the ice scraper. Just like we prepare ourselves for the cold, it makes sense to prepare our homes, too. A few simple steps now can help keep your home warm, comfortable, and energy efficient. If done right, you might even save some money on heating costs along the way.

Caulk Around the Windows

Cold air can creep in through even the smallest gaps. Sealing your windows with caulk helps keep warm air inside and cold air out. Double-check that all windows are fully closed and add weather-stripping or insulation film if needed. A quick trip to your local hardware store can make a big difference in energy bills.

Check the Furnace Filter and Get a Furnace Checkup

Replacing your furnace filter regularly can help it run more efficiently, extend its lifespan, and keep your heating costs lower. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations on how often to change it. In general, the wider the width of your filter, the less often you have to replace it. 

In addition to changing your filter, you should schedule a furnace inspection before the cold weather hits. A clean furnace will function more efficiently and save you money in energy costs. You can sign a contract with many HVAC companies to have them perform an annual inspection.

Change Your Fans to Spin Clockwise

Think ceiling fans are only for summer? Switching your fans to run clockwise during the winter can actually save energy. They send the hot air that rises back down, circulating it and keeping the temperature mild, which can reduce how often your furnace needs to kick on.

Close Off Unused Rooms

If you have rooms you rarely use, such as a guest bedroom, it can help to close the door and insulate around the windows. This keeps warm air where you need it and prevents heat from escaping into unused spaces.

If your home uses forced air, keep the vents open but lower the thermostat setting in that room. For baseboard heat, turn it off entirely if possible. You can also place a draft guard at the door to help block cold air from entering heated areas.

Get Your Chimney Swept

Many people use their fireplaces to keep warm all winter. Cleaning out your chimney creates greater efficiency and also decreases the accumulation of creosote, which can cause fires. Getting your chimney cleaned can also remove small blockages that could cause smoke to back up and compromise the air quality in your home. 

Drain Outdoor Water Faucets and Fixtures

Frozen pipes can lead to costly damage. Disconnect hoses, drain outdoor facets, and shut off water supply lines that lead outside. This helps prevent freezing and bursting during icy weather.

Winter Energy-Saving Tips

Even with a properly winterized home, energy costs can skyrocket in the winter as you turn up the thermostat to keep warm inside. Use these ideas to reduce your heating costs — and make your home greener, too:

• Turn down your thermostat. Wearing a sweatshirt or using an extra blanket allows you to lower the temperature a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
• Get a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat can adjust temperatures automatically, keeping your home cozy when you’re there and saving energy when you’re not. Some utility companies even offer rebates to make them more affordable.  

With a little preparation, you can keep your home warm all winter long without seeing a big jump in your energy bill. For more tips on saving money, visit our resource center.