As the temperatures go down and the snow starts to fall, it is time to begin winterizing your home in preparation for the months to come. By going through the following list every year, you can make ensure that everything is under control. This will help decrease future repairs while saving you money when it comes to footing your energy bills. Here are the top tips for ensuring that your home is winterized.
Fill in Cracks with Caulking
Small holes and cracks in your house are responsible for about 25% of the heat loss. Start outside by checking for different gaps as well as holes in the corners, windows, electrical outlets, and run your hands along these areas to have a feel of the temperature changes. Besides, clean out the cracks prior to filling them with caulking.
Replace Weather Stripping Found on the Windows
To ensure that your doors are airtight, begin by tightening the knobs. This should be followed by closing the door and checking if there is some light showing through the open edges. Perhaps you should run your hands along these edges and feel for any available cold spots. Cut the weather stripping into a recommended size then install it at the top and bottom of the door as well as the window.
Use a Shrink Wrap to Insulate Your Windows
Older homes are prone to harsh weather. In winter especially, they are subjected to extensive damage. You can insulate your windows with bubble wrap. You can also buy a kit that will easily fit the window from a store that supplies home improvement items. You can also follow a home repair tutor online and learn how to remove the wands from blinds then secure a shrink wrap around your window.
Prune Trees as Well as Large Plants
If you have a garden, it is crucial to ensure that all plants have been pruned or adequately trimmed. To prepare your plants for winter, contact your local landscaping contractor for care instructions.
Run Your Fans in Reverse
People think of fans when they want to have a cool environment. But, many ceilings come with a switch that helps reverse the route of the blades. Counterclockwise rotations exude cooling breezes. On the other hand, clockwise rotations make the environment warmer. With that said, air pooled next to the ceiling will be circulated into the existing living pace thereby cutting your costs by 10%.
Winterize Your AC
This should be easy to achieve. It will also save you time and money in summer. The first step is draining the air conditioner pipes. Ensure that there is no excess water pooled in the equipment. If the A/C has a shutoff valve, turn it off. Also, ensure that the hoses are drained. Turn the exterior off and remove the window A/C units.
Shut Off the Home Sprinkler
Use an air compressor to push water from the pipes in order to prevent freezing. If you have a home driveway, use different stakes to mark some of the edges on your driveway.
