Winter is coming, and it’s important to prepare for the cold weather. There are many things that you can do to ensure your home is ready for the winter months. This blog post will discuss how you can get your home ready. It also gives tips on what you should be doing during these next few weeks before winter hits.
Make Sure All Windows and Door Seals are Intact
You may need to apply caulk or replace old windows with new energy-efficient ones. Make sure the garage door has a tight seal. This will cut down on drafts which reduce heating bills by keeping warm air inside. These small changes make a big difference. Check all windows & doors on the home’s exterior for drafts and seal them up with caulk. Where necessary, make sure joints are smooth without cracks/gaps between frames and walls/sidings. This will allow the greatest insulation to remain inside while keeping warm air in and cold wind out. Change out any worn weather stripping around doors, windows, etc. If there is damage from wear & tear, it could let cold/hot air in depending on the season. Such damages waste more than necessary for heating and cooling. –
Check Your Furnace Filters
Dirty/clogged filters reduce the airflow. They strain on your equipment which can cause it to break down more often than not. Change furnace filters (if not done already). A brand new furnace costs much less than the damage that can occur if they are not changed in time. If you have a fireplace and chimney, make sure it is cleaned out before using. Clean all stovetop burners. By so doing, you avoid unnecessary fires/smoke damage, which can be very costly.
Ensure You Have Enough Fuel
This is important during extreme weather conditions such as blizzards and ice storms. Make sure all doors are shut without leaving any gaps between doorframes & walls. The openings allow cold air in which reduces home efficiency. Close off rooms that will not be used most of the time: lock closet doors or secure windows with plastic sheeting or tarps. Make sure there is still good ventilation. This ensures that no heat escapes through these areas. Thus, reducing costs further while maintaining comfortable living conditions. Close off your crawlspace if not in use during the winter months. This prevents heat from escaping through the ground below. If this isn’t possible, consider insulating or adding the floor above for storage so that no cold air enters down there.
Professionally Have Your Carpets Cleaned
This way, you don’t have to worry about the wet/cold weather ruining them. It also saves you a lot of time and energy from doing it yourself. If possible, buy an extra cheap space heater for any areas affected by cold drafts during these next few weeks. Keep them until temperatures start to rise again or if your heating system is being repaired.
Insulate Exposed Pipes using Pipe Insulation Sleeves
This will help to avoid freezing in colder months when water lines are most likely exposed. Check your home for extra insulation in attics, basements. Adding more where necessary will help reduce heating bills throughout the winter months. Change out or install storm windows at least a month before the cold weather sets in. This will allow you to get used to them and make adjustments as needed if they are new window models. There is no danger of breaking/cracking during extreme temperatures. Replace with standard windows that come with most homes nowadays.
Don’t Forget About Your Furry Friends
Check under beds, couches & other furniture, and below carpets for any leaks that could cause damage and discomfort for your pets. If you find any, make sure to take care of them before the winter months begin.
Conclusion
Homeowners should make sure their homes are as energy efficient as possible before winter begins. This will reduce heating costs and remain comfortable with these little tricks/tips. Make sure all doors shut without any gaps between doorframes & walls.