5 Home Winterization Tips

Winter can take a bite out of anyone’s budget.  With heating expenses and even the electric light bill going up due to shorter days, it’s a wonder anyone can save money during this season.  But, winter can also offer some opportunities for savings especially if you try these five home winterization tips before it gets too cold.

1.  Caulk The Windows

All around your windows are tiny little holes that can allow hot air to escape the cold to come in.  Most people only caulk the outside, but you should caulk both the insides in the outsides using the appropriate types of interior as well as exterior caulking.  This can be done in a weekend and it will help with not only keeping the cold out, but keeping moisture out as well.

2.  Put Up Weather Stripping

If you don’t already have it, you should put weather stripping around the windows and doors to seal them properly against the winter.  This is a relatively easy job and can save you a lot of money on your energy bills..

3.  Insulate The Hot Water Heater

Something a lot of people don’t think about when they embark on their home winterization projects is insulating the hot water heater.  You can get an insulation blanket that goes right around the heater which can help keep the hot water inside from cooling down.  This can save money as your hot water heater does not have to heat up the water those few extra degrees.

4.  Seal Your Windows

Sealing your windows with clear film can reduce your energy bills by a huge amount and will help keep your home a lot warmer.  They have kits that you can buy which consist of double-sided tape and clear film.  This is taped on the inside of the Windows and then you run a hair dryer over the film which tightens it up.  This way you can still see out of the windows and it’s almost imperceptible that there is film over them.

5.  Service Your Furnace

Fall is the time to get your furnace serviced by a professional.  Having it cleaned and the filter changed is not only good for safety purposes but it will also save you money on your energy bill because the furnace will be able to work more efficiently when it is in tiptop shape.

So there you have it!  A few home winterization tips that will only take you a couple of weekends but will save you some money on your energy bills.