With the economy taking a downturn, just about everyone is looking to save money wherever they can. One of the ways you can save this year is by employing techniques to reduce your winter heating costs and increase your homes energy efficiency.
1.) Hang thermal drapes on most or all windows. This type of window treatment prevents your home from "leaking" heat from the windows. Thermal drapes also absorb heat from the sun’s rays and help to passively heat your home.
2.) Check all door and window frames for holes in the caulking and repair as necessary. These holes can lead to big losses in heating efficiency if left unrepaired.
3.) Seal entrances to attics and crawlspaces with insulation and plastic covering. Attics suck heat from your living spaces since warm air rises, and basements/crawlspaces allow cold air from below to float up into your home. (Ever notice how cold your floor is on a winter morning, yet at head level the air is warm?)
4.) Hire a professional to check your home’s insulation, and update if needed. Different types of insulation have varying heat-holding capacities, and old insulation or a type that is too thin may be letting heat escape into your attic. Call Lowe’s or Home Depot to find out about having your home checked.
5.) Turn down your thermostat and invest in a good sweater. Unless you have a baby or elderly person in your home, or someone who is sick, you can live with a slightly cooler house. If you are serious about reducing your home heating costs, check out the DIY network or your local home improvement store.
You’ll get some great ideas and expert advice to help you with any project. CJ
