Being a homeowner is expensive, that’s for sure. But the biggest cost that you are likely to face monthly, apart from your mortgage payment, are your heating system costs. Take steps this winter to reduce those heating costs with some home maintenance. And don’t worry; you don’t have to compromise your heat or your comfort. You can be comfortably warm and keep your heating affordable at the same time.
Here are some easy ways to go green with your energy use and then keep greener in your wallet this winter in Montgomery, AL.
The Benefits of Window Caulking
It’s a small step, but caulking your windows to make them airtight can have a major impact on your heating bills. Caulking is low cost and is easy to apply, even for the most novice of DIY homeowners. Inspect your windows for cracks or damaged seals and apply caulk, as you need.
While you are at it, why not check out the weather-stripping on your doors? Is everything intact? If not, re-apply where needed.
It’s a small time investment, but is a smart one, financially. You can plan to recoup the return on your investment through savings on your heating bill in only a year’s time, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Why You Should Reverse Your Ceiling Fan
Did you know that you should keep your ceiling fan running all year? You may already do this in the summer as a way to stay cool, but did you know that doing this in the winter helps with heating in much the same way?
Keep the fan running, but when the seasons change, change the direction of the ceiling fan. In the summer, it typically goes counter clockwise.
This winter, flip the switch so it goes clockwise and you’ll benefit from the movement of the blades pushing the warm air back down into the room.
Determine the direction as you see it from standing beneath the fan looking up.
How to Insulate Your Windows
Make your windows more airtight, and you will see the savings on your energy bills.
Place film insulation directly on the window panes for the most effective barrier.
It is precise work, but it is also easily done. You just apply it to the window frames with tape and then fit firmly using heat. A hairdryer is helpful. Once it is in place, trim the excess away.
