Home Winterization Made Simple

When cold weather is on its way and you find yourself wanting to crank up your thermostat, it’s time to start thinking about all the little things that can add up to much larger bills. Getting a jumpstart on preparation is the key, so start getting your home ready now. Staying comfortable and saving money can go hand-in-hand! Read on for tips and tricks for home winterization, designed to help you save on costs and stay warm throughout the winter months ahead.

Take Care of your Furnace Filters

Clean your furnace filters once a month when you’re using the heat, and replace them when there’s too much build-up. A dirty air filter won’t allow efficient airflow, which increases the amount of energy needed to keep that air moving. You may want to think about installing permanent fiberglass or, even better (albeit more expensive) electrostatic filters, which are much better at reducing allergens and other irritants. A true HEPA filter is a great choice, but steer clear of anything referred to as ‘HEPA-like’—it’s not going to work as well.

Eliminate Window Openings

Do you have an air conditioning unit in your window? Cold air from outside can enter through its openings, so reduce any drafts byeither removing the unit completely, or covering the outside of the unit with a tarp.

Reset Your Fans

We think of ceiling fans as a way to help us cool down during the warmer months, but we can put them to use during the colder seasons as well. Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans so that they’ll turn clockwise and redirect hot air that’s near your ceilings back down into the rooms below.

Turn Down Your Water Heater

You can likely turn down the temperature on your water heater by 20 degrees or so (if it’s been set to the standard 140 degrees Fahrenheit) to further reduce heating costs. You might also want to consider going tankless or switching to solar.

Draft Snakes

Draft snakes have been used for generations to cut down on heat loss by reducing airflow below your doors. You can make these yourself as a DIY project (like this easy no-sew version made using a pair of tights and rice), or simply slip rolled-up towels underneath your doors.

Doors and Windows

Installing storm doors and windows is a great investment to make for home winterization. These will further cut down on drafts and can even brighten things up a bit by letting more light into your house.

Monitor Your Thermostat

Keep an eye on your thermostat. You’ll want to turn it down whenever you leave the house and before you go to bed at night. Your wallet will thank you, and it’s not like you’ll be taking comfort in those extra degrees while you’re away from home or fast asleep!

These are just a few easy home winterization steps you can take to keep your home warm and efficient all winter long. Click here for even more tips!

AWP Home Inspections offers home inspections, commercial building inspections, and a variety of other testing and inspection services to West Central and Central Indiana. Contact us today to learn more about our services.