Winter weather can take a toll on your house. Here are a few ways you can take some pressure off and keep energy bills from skyrocketing.
Keep the heat in: Updating your house’s insulation is one of your best investments. Not only will it keep you and your family comfortable during frigid weather, but also it means less wasted energy expenditure — and, therefore, lower bills. Insulation can deteriorate over time, so if it’s been a while since you inspected it, now is a good time to check it out. The best way to find out where you may be losing heat is to get an energy audit. They can pinpoint any heat loss, whether it’s from the attic, windows or walls.
A straightforward DIY project is installing weather stripping; it’s inexpensive and easy to find at any hardware store. Weather stripping is self-adhesive, so it’s easy to install around windows and doors. You can also caulk around windows and doors to lessen heat leakage.
Outside the house: Have your roof and siding inspected and make any necessary repairs. Prevention could save you a lot of money in the long run. Inspect eaves troughs and downspouts to ensure they’re properly fastened and not sagging. And while you’re up there, clean out leaves and debris, avoid overflowing and icicles. Make sure downspouts reach at least five feet from the house to avoid flooding and water damage.
Lawn and garden: Cut back overgrown branches near the house and near any electrical wires. Ice and snow buildup can cause branches to break, potentially snapping a line (or damaging your home) on their way down.
Make sure your outside faucets are drained and turned off. Covering them will help prevent water damage. Remove and store any attached hoses and put them inside to avoid cracking and prolong their usefulness.
Check your outside lighting to ensure you can see walkways in the dark now that days are shorter. Also, inspect handrails on outside stairs, making sure they are secure.
Tools: Prepare seasonal tools, such as snow blowers, with a tune-up and a light coating of oil to prevent rust. Keep these tools — including snow shovels and salt — easily accessible, so you don’t have to go digging for them when you need them.
