3 Ways to Keep Your Home Comfortable this Winter

Now that the temperatures are dropping, you’ve probably got warmth on your mind. But before you crank the furnace, let’s talk about what you can do to make your home more efficient so you’re not just pumping heat into the neighborhood and watching your energy bills soar.

Check your filter

It’s a great rule of thumb to change your HVAC filter when you first turn on the heat, and then again when you turn on the air conditioning, though depending on your system you may only need one change a year. Changing your filter not only makes the system more efficient, but it keeps the air in your home cleaner and keeps your family safer, as dirty filters can be a fire hazard.

Check seals on doors and windows

Drafts from around doors and windows can make you chilly no matter how hard your furnace is working, and leaks in frames allow cold air in while letting heat escape. Luckily, adding weatherstripping is an economical and easy DIY project; instructions for every type of weatherstripping, along with supplies, can be found at any big box hardware store.

Check your insulation

Did you know that Energy Star recommends 10-14 inches of insulation in your attic? Check to see if you’ve got anywhere near that, and also if it’s evenly spread out. Heat rises, so properly insulating your attic against air leaks can keep more warm air circulating in your home.

Once you have the attic taken care of, move underground and evaluate your basement. Are there drafts around the rim joist (basically the perimeter of the basement ceiling)? Do you have fiberglass insulation (the pink stuff) visible in the walls or ceiling? It might be time to upgrade to a more efficient and appropriate basement insulation. Fiberglass insulation is known for absorbing ambient moisture and can harbor mold, so it isn’t a great choice for a damp environment like a basement. We recommend our inorganic, waterproof spray foam insulation to not only protect every nook and cranny of the rim joist but also prevent mold and moisture issues.

Taking a few small measures to prepare your home for winter will not only make it more comfortable but also more efficient. That means less wear and tear on your HVAC system and lower energy bills since the system doesn’t have to work as hard or as much. Enjoy a cozy winter at home and use the extra cash to spring for the good hot chocolate.