As the weather gets colder, it is time to prepare your home for the winter season.
Make sure your home is ready for the cold and snow with these helpful tips!
1. Window Insulation Film—It’s the oldest trick in the book, but still a helpful solution to prevent cold air from seeping into the home. Window insulation film covers windows and can be installed on metal, painted, varnished wood, or vinyl clad frames. It keeps 70% of the heat from leaking out of windows. Window Insulation film kits can be found on Amazon ranging between $5-20.
2. Preventing drafts— In addition to windows, cold winter air can enter the home from doors and other gaps in the house. Use Items such as door draft guards, weather strip tape, and insulation chalk to close any gaps and prevent drafts. All items are easy to use and are available for purchase at Home Depot.
3. Replace Furnace Filters—Optimize the amount of warm air released from your furnace by replacing the filters. Dust, pet hair, and dirt can build up in the filter, potentially damaging the fan or heating coil of the furnace. Replacing filters purifies your homes air as well as maximizes the efficiency of your heating system. There are many types of filters available. Disposable fiberglass filters trap larger particles of dust and dirt. They are meant to be thrown away; only lasting a month or two. Disposable pleated paper furnace filters are more expensive, however last from four months to a year. The most reliable and expensive filters are reusable electrostatic filters, trapping smoke and small airborne particles. These filters can be cleaned with a hose and last for years. Check out the best types of filters for you and your furnace on Amazon.
4. Clean Your Gutters—A simple, yet important step to winterize your home. Cleaning a home’s gutters allows water to flow freely, preventing the formation of ice dams and icicles. These damns block the melted snow from the roof, that may cause mini reservoirs and water damage. Avoid water backups and damage to your home by cleaning dead leaves and gunk out of your gutters. If you aren’t able to reach your gutters, search out a professional gutter cleaner, we recommend Houzz to find the best provider for you.
5. Insulate Pipes and Hot Water Heater—Insulating hot water pipes saves both money and energy by increasing the temperature water two to four degrees on lower settings. According to the Department of Energy, insulating a hot water heater saves 4%-9% off water-heating costs. You can insulate pipes and hot water yourself as a DIY project or reach out to a local handy individual for assistance.
After winterizing you home and preparing for the winter, your home is warm and ready this season.
