Most people are unaware of the amount of money being wasted each winter by not having the home ready to battle the cold weather. Unfortunately, many states this winter have been hit hard by extremely cold temperatures, as well as snow and ice. Unless the home has been properly winterized, money going to the utility companies is wasted. We want to show you how to save money by winterizing your home, whether one you own or a home you rent.
The home, which could be a single family home, apartment, condominium, etc serves as a safe place to live but also a protector against the harsh elements. However, if the home has not been properly prepared, air and moisture can leak inside, which makes the home cold but also costs significant money. Of course at the same time, warm air from within the home seeps outside, making the problem worse.
The primary way to save money by winterizing your home has to do with the windows, which are the one area that experiences the worst air and moisture leaks. If you have been thinking about having energy efficient windows installed and the budget allows the purchase, this would be the first and most important step to take. Choosing two or three-pane windows would help you save the most money. In addition, you could save money by winterizing your home in a number of other ways.
For instance, if you cannot afford new windows then spend $40 purchasing high quality caulk. Finding air leaks around windows and doors, and then sealing them with caulk could easily reduce your monthly energy bill by 30%. In addition to these leaks, make sure your chimney is not also a problem. In this case, you may need to fix a loose or broken damper or you may even find that mortar around a few bricks within the firebox that simply need to be repaired.
Some of the other ways to save money by winterizing your home is to make sure your thermostat is working properly. Thermostats are in expensive and extremely easy to replace, especially wireless units. You should also make sure the furnace filter has been cleaned or replaced. Today, filters are high-tech and designed to capture far more dust and dirt, which allows the furnace to operate more efficiently. As a result, the interior of the home is more comfortable and the cost of heating decreases.
If you suspect the furnace is the culprit, then it would be a worthwhile investment to pay to have it inspected and fixed by a trained and licensed contractor. Depending on the problem, having the furnace repaired could save hundreds of dollars each year. Finally, check the level of insulation in the home, especially in the attic. If you have an older home, the problem could be an inadequate level of insulation. You can purchase insulation that rolls out or is sprayed, which would fill any holes and gaps in the attic, thereby sealing it from outside leaks.
