Winter weather can affect the comfort and efficiency of your home when you’re not prepared for the change in season. Take time to help protect your home from freezing temperatures, keep your home warm and improve your energy efficiency this season with the following winter-ready tips for every homeowner:
1. Check for Air Leaks
Your home exterior should keep cold air and moisture out. Inspect your siding for cracks and gaps and ensure there are no damaged or missing shingles on the roof. Windows can contribute to 30% of heating and cooling costs. If you feel a cold draft coming from windows and doors, you may need to reapply weatherstripping or external caulking to create a tighter seal. Use curtains and blinds to provide an extra layer of insulation and help block the cold.
2. Assess Your Attic Insulation
Attic insulation can help prevent warm air from escaping through the roof. ENERGY STARⓇ recommends installing attic insulation with an R-value of 38 or 10-14 inches, depending on the insulation type. Check your attic insulation level and add more if necessary. Keep in mind the higher the R-value, the better the thermal performance.
3. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Reverse the directional flow of ceiling fans in winter to circulate the warm air that rises around the room and down to where you need it most. Most ceiling fans will have a directional switch, so ensure it is in a clockwise rotation before switching it counterclockwise in the summer months.
4. Enhance Your Lighting
Counteract fewer daylight hours with increased lighting. Swap out old light bulbs for energy-efficient LED options. Add task lighting to kitchens and workspaces. Enhance ambient lighting with stylish floor and table lamps. Throughout the day, take advantage of natural light as a heating source.
If you struggle to stay warm this winter, consider upgrading to insulated vinyl siding and installing new energy-efficient windows. Use the Alside Visualizer to picture your new home exterior today.