It’s the Perfect Time to Winterize your Home

Finding some extra time this fall to prepare your home for the cold weather ahead, can help to decrease your energy bills, while increasing your comfort. Simple, inexpensive changes can yield big results; get ready for winter by following any or all of the tips listed below.

Adjust your thermostat.

Change the settings on your programmable thermostat, to an energy saving setpoint of 68 degrees for times you are at home and awake, and several degrees lower while you’re asleep or away. For every degree you lower the dial for eight hours or more, you can save three percent on your monthly heating bill.

Replace your air filter.

A dirty or clogged air filter forces your heating system to work harder to deliver air through your vents. Change the filter every four to six weeks during peak season. Call for annual maintenance. Have your heating equipment inspected, cleaned and tuned before you turn it on; a well maintained system runs more efficiently and requires fewer repairs.

Change directions.

Reverse your ceiling fans to run counterclockwise during the winter. The resulting updraft forces warm air that has risen towards the ceiling, back down towards your living space.

Seal air leaks.

Keep warm air in and cold air out by checking for leaks around doors, windows and exterior wall outlets; seal accordingly with caulking, weatherstripping or insulation. Leaky ducts can account for up to 20 percent of conditioned air loss; cracks or breaks should be sealed with duct mastic or foil backed tape.

Boost your insulation levels.

While getting your home ready for winter, head up to the attic to check insulation levels. If you can see the floor joists, add another layer or two, aiming for a minimum thickness of 12 inches.

At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.

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