It’s the beginning of November and we already have experienced colder temperatures and a little snow. Now is the perfect time to do a few tasks around your home to help you save money and energy and prepare your home for the long winter ahead. Here are a few tips to help.
Cover drafty windows with heavy duty, clear plastic sheets. Make sure plastic is sealed tightly to the frame.
Use thicker curtains to help block out drafts from windows.
During the time you are awake and at home, adjust your thermostat to as low as you can still find it comfortable. At night set it back to a lower temperature.
Seal up any air leaks around the utility cut-throughs for pipes, chimneys, etc.
Have routine maintenance done on your furnace.
If you have a wood burning fireplace, check the seal on the flue damper, install tempered glass doors and a blower that will blow the warm air back into the room.
Check the insulation in your attic and the seal around the door to the attic.
Put an insulation jacket around your water heater. The water heater accounts for up to 18% of your electricity bill.
Put rugs on hardwood floors.
Check vents for any obstructions.
Use ceiling fans to circulate warm air. Change the direction of the fans from what they are in summer.
When the sun is out, open up the curtains and blinds to let the warm sunshine help warm your home.
More tips and more information can be found on your local electricity utility company’s website and the Department of Energy.
