How to Winterize Your Home

Winter’s coming, and no one wants to deal with a chilly house or skyrocketing energy bills. So, let’s get your home cozy, efficient, and ready for those frosty months. Here’s a simple, laid-back guide to winterizing your space.

1. Reverse Those Ceiling Fans

Did you know your ceiling fan can help keep your home warm? It’s true! When it’s chilly outside, just switch your fan to rotate clockwise. This pulls cool air up and pushes that nice, warm air (which naturally rises) back down into the room, making things feel snug and warm.

2. Seal Up Doors and Windows

A little draft can mean a lot of wasted energy. Sealing your doors and windows is a quick way to keep the cold out and the heat in. You can add door sweeps, caulking, and weather stripping, or even install storm doors and windows. It’s an easy fix that can save you up to 30% on your energy bills!

3. Insulation Is Your Best Friend

Insulating your walls, attic, and pipes is like wrapping your home in a warm blanket. It keeps the heat where it belongs—inside! Check your attic and walls for proper insulation, and don’t forget to insulate your hot water pipes too. This will help keep your water hotter for longer, so you can lower the water heater temp and save even more.

4. Clean Those Gutters

Clogged gutters can lead to all kinds of problems, like water damage to your home’s foundation. Take a bit of time to clean out the leaves and debris, and make sure water can flow freely. If you notice any sagging or leaks, fix them up before the snow hits.

5. Check the Roof and Attic

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against winter weather. Make sure it’s in good shape! Adding insulation to your attic will prevent ice dams on your roof by keeping the heat inside where it belongs. And if you’re planning to replace your roof, consider adding a water-repellent membrane under the shingles for extra protection.

6. Prep the Fireplace

A cozy fire is one of the best parts of winter, but only if your fireplace is in good shape. Clean out the soot and ash, check for any cracks, and make sure the damper works smoothly. A properly working damper prevents heat from escaping when it’s closed and smoke from filling your home when it’s open.

7. Drain Hoses and AC Units

Don’t let leftover water freeze and burst your pipes! Disconnect and drain your garden hoses and turn off the exterior water spigots. If you have a window AC unit, remove it or cover it up to keep the cold air out.

8. Seal Up Ductwork

Leaky ducts can drive up your energy bills by letting warm air escape. Sealing them up will keep your home cozy and save you money. According to EnergyStar, this simple step can reduce your energy costs by up to 20%.

9. Turn Down the Water Heater

Your water heater might be set hotter than you need. Lowering it to 120 degrees Fahrenheit can save you up to 10% on heating costs. Plus, wrapping it in an insulation blanket will keep the water warmer for longer.

10. Get Your Furnace Ready

Before winter kicks in, give your furnace some love. Change the filter to help it run more efficiently, and consider having a professional check it out. If your furnace is old and inefficient, now might be the time to upgrade to an Energy-Star model, which can save you 15% to 20% on heating costs.

11. Master Your Thermostat

A programmable or smart thermostat can make a big difference in your heating bills. Set it to lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away, and watch the savings add up. Even dropping it by just a few degrees can make a noticeable difference.

By following these tips, you’ll keep your home warm and your energy bills down this winter. Enjoy the season knowing you’re ready for whatever the weather brings!