Category Archives: Home Tips

A Few Winter Tips to Keep Your Home Warm and Your Bills Low

By

Home Tips, ,

It’s the season where cold and snowy days are more common than not. When you come home you want to walk into a warm, cozy area to get out of the chilly weather without paying a lot in utility costs. Here are a few things you can do to help keep your energy bills down while keeping your home warm.

Check the furnace filter

Male arm and hand replacing disposable air filter in residential air furnace.


Filters should be changed out every month to keep your furnace running smoothly. Doing this will increase airflow, up your heaters performance, and improve the air quality in your home.

Get a programmable thermostat

Male arm and hand replacing disposable air filter in residential air furnace.

Having a programmable thermostat allows you to lower the temperature of your home while you’re away or asleep. Doing this will help cut costs on your energy bill since your home won’t be heating all day.

Close the fireplace damper

This is a place that is often forgotten when it comes to sealing up drafts. Be sure to close the damper so cool air does not come in through the chimney.

Check doors and windows for air leaks

Even the smallest cracks can cause drafts that will bring the cool air in your home. Use weather stripping and caulk to seal up your doors and windows.

Turn the water heater down

There is no need to keep your water heater at the highest temperature at all times. Turn it down to a warm setting to save on energy costs.

Fall Home Maintenance

By

Home Tips

As the cold weather months are approaching, you’re probably thinking of all the fall and winter fun you are going to have. Pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, and leaf pile jumping. While you’re soaking in these moments, don’t forget about your home.

Before the snow settles in there are a few things you’ll want to check off your list to make sure you aren’t out in the blizzard making these fixes.

1. Rain Gutters

Be sure to clean your gutters of leaves and dirt, which can cause water buildup and damage to your roof.

2. Windows and Doors

Drafty doors and windows can let cold air in and raise your utility bills. Check for any drafts and apply weather stripping where needed.

3. Furnace

Change out your air filters and if needed, get any maintenance taken care of. Making sure that everything is running in tip top shape will increase your home’s heating efficiency.

4. Insulation

Insulation is a very cost-effective way to lower your heating bills. You can get a home energy audit to find out where you need additional insulation. Check with your utility company for deals on insulation upgrades. In many areas, your utility company will cover the cost.

5. Roofing

Check for any damaged shingles, flashing around the seams, and remove any branches that hang over your home.

Save
Save
Save