Don't let your home get caught in the cold. Take these actions to stay comfortable and save money.
- Call a pro. - Hire a qualified professional to inspect and clean your heating system to ensure that it's operating at peak efficiency.
- Plug the holes. - Check for air leaks around recessed light fixtures, pipes, wiring and flues in your attic and basement. Fill them with expandable foam or caulk.
- Fill the gaps. - Look for any gaps around windows or exterior doors. Seal any you find with caulk or weather stripping.
- Ensure coverage. - Make sure your walls and attic are insulated to levels recommended for your climate zone. An insulation contractor can help.
- Get with the program. - Install a wi-fi enabled programmable thermostat and set it to automatically adjust temperatures to save energy based on your schedule.
If your heating system is older or in need of repair, consider upgrading to an Energy Star certified high performance unit.
Before cold weather hits, consider a home energy audit. A professional will inspect your home and provide a targeted set of recommendations to improve the comfort and efficiency of your home this winter and all year long.
