Colder weather is hitting much of the country this time of year, and it can be quite costly to keep your house toasty warm inside. Maintaining your HVAC system is crucial during winter months. There are plenty of different things you can do to help trap the warmth within your walls or keep yourself toasty without breaking the bank, and here are a few to get you started.
  • Bulk around all your windows and doors to keep the drafts out
  • Install a few more layers of insulation in your walls and attic
  • Wear warmer clothing before turning up the heat
  • Add rugs onto your floors to increase comfort and cover colder flooring
  • Install a programmable thermostat to keep your home at the optimal temperature
  • Seal your windows with double-sided tape and plastic film (kits can be found in your local home improvement store)
  • Use curtains and window coverings to keep drafts at bay
  • Having better windows installed can make a world of difference
Be sure to have your furnace serviced each year to ensure it is running smoothly throughout the winter months. You can buy new filters for most any furnace to ensure you are sending clean air throughout your home. There are all different types of filters you can choose from, including your basic filtration all the way up to healthy allergen-reducing filters. Maintaining your furnace is important, but you may also want to consider replacing it with a more energy-efficient furnace as well. Booking an inspection to check on your electrical system and appliances is a great idea, and you should get this done around every three to five years to ensure everything is running smoothly with your HVAC system. Plumbing problems are another issue that nobody wants to have to face in the dead of winter. Could you imagine not being able to take a shower or run water for cooking because your pipes have frozen or burst? What are a few things to consider when taking care of your waterways this winter to save you a headache and some cash?
  • If you plan on going anywhere, leave a trickle of water running in your sinks to keep water from freezing in your pipes.
  • Insulate your water heater and pipes to keep the water at the optimal temperature.
  • Change the temperature of your water heater down a few degrees to save some cash.
  • If you happen to find a leaky faucet, fix it right away; it can cost you hundreds each year.
  • Install water-efficient toilets to save on every flush
  • Install a tankless water heater to save 30-50% more energy than an original unit
  • A plumber can help you determine what more you can do to amp up your plumbing game
By maintaining your HVAC system, heating, and plumbing this winter, you will save thousands of dollars and be prepared for any winter weather.
Tom Knittle
President