Getting Your Home Ready For Winter

Every October we slowly feel the temperatures dropping. The leaves start changing and winter coats are taken out of our closet. The changes in temperature bring changes to your lifestyle as well. Winterizing your home is one of these changes. Even though winter has yet to hit us, here are some great tips for winterizing your home.

Plumbing

Plumping can be a problem at any time of the year however, winter and the cold weather seem to put the most stress on your pipes. If you have an older home, your pipes are more susceptible to cracks and leaks. Inspect inside lines as best you can to ensure you don’t have a problem in the coming months. Even the slightest leak can freeze and create more damage in the long run. If your summer home will be vacant all winter be sure that all water lines are emptied and the water and gas are turned off.

Drafts

Window and door drafts cause up to 30% of all energy loss in your home. Cracked or old windows can be the worst culprit. If you can’t replace your windows or doors before winter, just simply roll up towels and place them on the bottom of outside doors. This will help seal out the cold air. You can also purchase plastic guards to go over windows. Keeping blinds and drapes shut will help prevent the cold draft as well.

Ceiling Fans

This is an old trick and we often forget about our fans in the colder months, but by reversing the direction of the blades it will force the warmer air back into the living space.

Thermostat

Setting the right temperature is very important when it comes to your heating costs. Just one-degree can make a difference and save you anywhere from 1-3% of your heating bill. Set your thermostat to 68-70 degrees during the day in the winter, and 65-68 degrees at night. Keep in mind that if you are out all day, lowering your thermostat can significantly lower your bills as well.

Furnace Filters

It’s very important to change your furnace filters regularly. Dust and dirt build up on filters and in turn prevent air flow from passing through.  As a result, the furnace has to work harder to create the same amount of heat. Change filters every month to ensure your furnace is working efficiently.

Water Heater

Many water heaters are set around 140 degrees at all times. Even though we all enjoy a steamy shower in the colder months, lowering your water heater to 120 degrees can save you a lot of money and you won’t even notice the next time you shower.

Winterizing your home can save you extraordinary amounts of money in the colder months. Little steps like these are worth receiving a lower energy bill.



source: http://restorationmasterfinder.com/restoration/winterizing-your-home-checklist-and-tips