Are you dreading those winter energy bills? Or are you sick of feeling the winter cold in your home? There are ways to keep the cold out of your home so you’re only wearing your hats and mittens outside.
Cover (or replace) your windows
Your windows are one of the first lines of defense against the winter cold. That’s why plastic coverings on old windows or—even better—new, energy efficient windows are an essential part of lowering your energy bills. Plastics coverings can be installed as a do-it-yourself project. Installing new windows is more complicated.
Contact a contractor to get the windows installed before the freezing drafts become unbearable.
Add insulation to the attic
Over time, the insulation in an attic can break down. Adding insulation can increase the energy efficiency of your home, keeping you warmer and more comfortable through the winter months. Insulation can be added as a DIY project or you can contact a contractor to get the project done quickly and efficiently.
Caulk the cracks and holes
You may not notice those small cracks and holes around your windows and doors, but they can be a major source of drafts and leaks. Add caulks to those cracks and holes to eliminate those drafts and minimize your high energy bills, or hire a contractor to get it done.
Adjust the thermostat and the ceiling fan
Two easy adjustments can make a difference in your energy bills. Lower the temperature of your thermostat just a few degrees to save money on energy bills, and adjust the direction of your ceiling fan. A ceiling fan going clockwise directs the heat from your furnace downward into the room. It takes just a flip of the switch on your ceiling fan to make the change, and can save you pennies during the coldest months of the year.