As the winter solstice approaches, marking the shortest and darkest day, it's time to prepare your home for the cold season. Turning up the thermostat or heating system can lead to higher energy bills, but with these 12 amazing tips for winterizing your home, you can be productive, eco-friendly, save energy, and ultimately, money.
The first step in winterizing your home is to upgrade your thermostat. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, installing a programmable thermostat can save you money and energy by automatically adjusting the temperature when you're away or on vacation.
Heat often escapes through windows, especially wooden ones that expand and contract with temperature changes. To prevent heat loss, consider the following:
Planting evergreen trees near your house can shield it from wind, rain, and snowstorms. This natural solution helps keep your walls from getting cold quickly, reducing the strain on your heating system.
If you have a fireplace, consider adding an insert to divert more heat inside. Hire an experienced installer to ensure proper installation and safety.
Draft snakes, popular during the Depression era, are making a comeback as an effective way to reduce energy waste. These can be placed underneath doors or at the bottom of windows to keep hot air in and drafts out. You can even make them yourself as a fun DIY project with your children.
According to recent studies, switching your ceiling fan's rotation to clockwise can produce warm air and cut heating costs by up to 10%. However, be mindful of electricity consumption.
Insulation is crucial for maintaining a warm home. If your house lacks insulation or has old, worn insulation, it's time to upgrade. Add insulation to walls, attic floors, and basement ceilings to keep temperatures consistently toasty.
To prevent heat loss through your plumbing, consider the following:
Before the first snowfall, inspect your home for potential cold air entry points:
Prepare meals during the day and let the heat from your oven warm up the rooms. This can save hours of heating until the residual heat dissipates.
While it's tempting to crank up the thermostat and walk around in shorts and a t-shirt, it's not energy-efficient or healthy. Doctors recommend maintaining a moderate indoor temperature and wearing appropriate clothing, like socks, slippers, and sweaters.
Air conditioners can allow cold air to enter through small gaps. Remove your A/C unit from the window and seal any holes or cracks. Alternatively, cover the unit with a tarp if you prefer not to remove it. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts can waste 5-30% of your energy each year.
By implementing these 12 winterizing tips, you can keep your house warmer this year without increasing your energy bills. Not only will you be doing yourself and your family a favor, but you'll also be helping the environment by reducing your energy consumption. Stay vigilant for signs that your house needs additional weatherization, and remember, the less energy you use, the greener you are.