Winter is approaching fast! Save money on your heating bill by winterizing your windows and doors before the freezing temperatures hit.
According to Energy.gov, heating and cooling accounts for more than half of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, making it the largest energy expense for most homes!
The following steps will include using products you can pick up at your local hardware store. Plan on spending a couple hours to complete all the steps. However, if you put in the time, it’ll pay off this winter.
The Check Over
To get started, complete an inspection of all your doors and windows. Check for anything noticeable like cracks or nicks in the window panes and ensure all doors close properly. For doors, if you can stick a piece of cardboard under or above the door, you have a serious gap.
Feel drafty in certain rooms of the house? A great way to check for drafts is to light a tall candle and hold the candle up to the window and door. See the light flickering towards you? There might be a draft.
Winterizing Windows
According to that Natural Resources Defense Council, one-third of household heat escapes through windows. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep the heat in!
1. If you can, replace any window screens with their glass panes. This second layer of glass will help insulate.
2. Once any cracks are located, apply caulking around the outside of windows. You can pick up a caulking gun and caulk at your local hardware store.
Watch this video on caulking windows
3. Another winter window trick is to install thermal curtains around your main windows. Keeping the curtains open during the sunny winter days will keep your house warmer. Close the curtains during the night to keep the heat in.
Winterizing Doors
Doors to the outside are letting heat out through opening and closing. However, if your door is shut, you shouldn’t feel a draft.
1. Install storm doors. Replace your screen doors with storm doors to keep heat in and winter out.
2. Check for gaps around the door. If there is a gap in the door, adding a weather strip or replacing an old one can keep the heat inside. Luckily, adding a weather strip is fairly simple. You can pick one up from your hardware store and installation is simple.
Watch this video on adding weather strips
Winterizing Your Windows and Doors Saves Money
Spending a little time and money will go a long way in preparing your home for the cold months ahead.
Other tips on saving money on your heating bill:
1. Set the thermostat for when you’re away. Is everyone gone during the day? Set the thermostat lower and turn it back up when you return.
2. Turn down the heat at night. Turning the temperature down even just a few degrees at night will save money.
3. Avoid using space heaters. Space heaters can really rack up the electricity bill.
