THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2013
We’ve all felt it. That slow temperature drop that comes every September. The leaves start changing and winter coats are dusted off. These changes in temperature bring changes in your lifestyle as well. Winterizing your home is one of these changes. Drops in temperature means winter preparation of your home. Even though winter has yet to hit us, find out some winterizing tips for your home.
Home Winterizing Checklist
 Plumbing
Plumping can be problematic any time of the year. Yet winter and cold weather seems to put the most stress on your pipes. If you have an older home, your pipes are more susceptible to cracks and leaks. Inspect inside lines as best you can to ensure you don’t have a bigger problem in the coming months. Even the slightest leak can freeze and create more damage in the long run. Take extra precaution if you are boarding up a summer home to be vacant all winter and that all water lines are emptied and water and gas are turned off.
Drafts
Window and door drafts can cause up to 5-30% of all energy loss in your home. Cracked or old windows can be the worst culprit. This tip is easy and most of you probably already do it. Try rolled up towels by the bottom of outside doors and make sure to check the trim. This will help seal out the cold air. Plastic guards over the window as well as keeping blinds and drapes shut will help prevent the cold draft as well.
Ceiling Fans
This is an old trick and we often forget about our fans in the colder months, but by reversing the direction of the blades you then force warmer air back into the living space.
Thermostat
Setting the right temperature is very important when it comes to your heating costs. Just one-degree difference can save you anywhere from 1-3% of your heating bill. Keep in mind that if during the day no one is home, lowering your thermostat even lower can significantly lower your bills as well.
 Furnace Filters
If you have been following these blogs, you know how important it is to change your furnace filters. Dust and dirt build up on filters thus preventing air flow from passing through the filter easily. In turn, making the furnace work harder to create the same amount of heat. Change filters every month to ensure your furnace is working efficiently.
Water Heater
Many water heaters are set around 140 degrees at all times. Even though we all enjoy a steamy shower in the colder months, lowering your water heater to 120 degrees can save you a lot of money and you wont even notice the next time you jump in that shower.
Winterizing your home can save you extraordinary amounts of money in the colder months. Little steps like these are worth receiving a lower energy bill.
If in case you do experience winter damage and need home repairs, don’t hesitate to call a local restoration company in your area.
Give Tabitha E Walker Insurance Agency a call at 540-657-5633 for more information about Stafford homeowners insurance & tips on winterizing your home.
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