As it gets colder, most people are preparing for high energy costs that come with dipping temperatures. Instead of jacking up the heat (and your utility bills) follow these simple tips that can help you spend less energy in the winter months, and keep your money where it belongs – in your pocket!
Get rid of drafts.
You could be squandering the warmth in your home if air is escaping through tiny holes in your walls and ceilings. Take some time to tour your home with some caulk, sealing all of the draft-prone areas, like around doors and windows, air vents, electrical outlets, and switch plates. Less air escaping means that the warm air in your home won’t get out, and the cold air from outside won’t get in.
Keep the thermostat turned down.
Resist the urge to crank up the heat when your home starts feeling chilly. Instead, curl up with a hot drink and a fluffy blanket. You’ll be just as comfortable, and you’ll be saving up to 5% on your energy spending for every degree that you turn down your thermostat.
Take advantage of your curtains.
Proper curtain use is critical when you’re looking to manipulate your home’s temperature without use of your thermostat. Allow the sun’s energy to warm up your home by opening the curtains in the morning and afternoon, but close them at dusk. Once the sun has heated up your home, you need to seal in the heat, preferably with insulated curtains that will prevent heat from escaping out your windows.
Keep your furnace clean.
How well do you stay on top of your home maintenance tasks? One of the things that should be on your list each year is to have your home’s furnace cleaned and inspected by a professional. Not only will this make sure that your furnace is safe (furnaces can sometimes have a carbon monoxide leak or other issues that could hurt you) but it will make sure that your heating system runs smoothly through the winter in an efficient manner.
Add attic insulation.
If you have done everything that you can to cut energy spending, but you aren’t seeing sufficient results, you could need more insulation in your attic. If an attic isn’t properly insulated, it can allow lots of heat to escape, and you will pay a lot to make up for what’s lost. If you need help determining if you need more insulation, call a professional for help. They can also help to ensure that you get the right type of insulation for your home, and that you install it in the right places.
If you want to save even more money this winter, call 617-298-0655 for an insurance review from Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency. One of our friendly and knowledgeable agents will be happy to analyze your current home and/or auto insurance policies to see if they can save you money on your premium with some of our spectacular discounts!
