Keep Winter Out

Winter is in full swing with its bone-chilling drafts, consider fortifying your home against the cold to keep your family comfortable. Follow these five simple, cost-effective steps for a cozier season and lower utility bills.

Step 1: Beware of the draft

A drafty window or doorway may increase your energy bills by 5% to 30%.The most severe draft often comes from the gap under your doorway. Stop-up this drafty gap with a “draft snake.” You may also roll-up an old towel or bathmat and seal off the most offensive draft in your home for no cost at all.

Use weather stripping in window sills and door jambs where movement and flexibility are necessary. For more permanent leaks, such as around your window or door frame, use caulking.

Step 2: Insulate

Insulation doesn’t just go between the walls. The addition of heavy drapes or air-cushion blinds in the winter keeps the warm air in and the cold air out. Also, if your water heater or pipes are warm to the touch, insulate them to keep costly energy from dissipating into the air.

Step 3: Circulate

Flip the switch on the side of your ceiling fan to pull cool air up and push warm air down into the room.

Step 4: Deduct

Invest in an Energy Star-certified solar water heater. The energy savings will pay for the equipment over time. Check with your utility company to see if they offer rebates for energy-efficient water heaters.

Step 5: Wear a sweater

Keep it simple — save the most on your energy bill by turning down the thermostat and donning a sweater.