How To Winterize Your Home

As Winter quickly approaches, and the temperature drops lower daily, it’s that time of year home owners need to begin Winterizing their homes. What is Winterizing, you might ask? This practice of completing small tasks around the home to prepare for the winter season might seem silly to some, but in the long run you’ll save a few bucks on potentially costly expenses.

1. Have Your Sprinkler Systems Blown Out
If your home has an underground sprinkler system, it is crucial you Winterize the pipes. When water freezes, it causes the pipes to expand. This means the pipes can crack, which will cause huge problems when it comes time to turn on those sprinklers next summer. If you don’t have your sprinkler system blown out, you might end up having to repair or replace your entire system.

2. Run Your Fans in Reverse
Did you know most ceiling fans have a switch that allows you to reverse the direction of the air being circulated? When fans are run in reverse they disperse warm air in the room. Air pooled near the ceiling is circulated back through the living space, and studies have shown that by doing this simple action, home owners can save as much as ten percent on their heating costs a year.

3. Eliminate Those Drafts
To eliminate drafts in the home, use either a draft snake (which you can make yourself using a rolled up towel), or purchase one at the store. Draft snake’s cover up gaps in a door, and eliminate heat from escaping, or cold air from entering. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts can waste 5 to 30% of your energy use!

4. Mind The Thermostat
When you leave your home, don’t forget to turn down the thermostat. Most household energy expenses are on the heating bill during the winter time, and money can be saved if you manage your thermostat properly.

Follow these tips and you’ll save money when spring time rolls around!