Cut your energy bill in half this winter and stay warm with the following tips to winterize your home!

Insulation:
According to the EPA, attics should have a minimum of R-38 insulation, which is about 10 – 14 inches deep. Attic floor insulation is by far the most effective as it keeps the heat from the rooms below from rising to the attic.

Caulking:
Stop the cold air from infiltrating your cozy home by plugging up holes, cracks, and open seams on the exterior of your house! Use a high-quality caulk like acrylic-latex or expanding foam sealant. Pay special attention to areas where the siding overlaps the foundation. If you’re looking for a green alternative to these traditional insulations such as cellulose and spray foam.

Windows:
If you don’t already have insulated-glass windows, you should install storm windows. They mount to the exterior and provide an extra layer of protection. You can remove them in the springtime when and store them for next winter.

Furnace:
Replace your furnace filters every two months in the winter season. A clogged and dirty filter stops airflow. Maybe even consider replacing a disposable filter with a reusable electrostatic model.

Ceiling Fans:
It might sound like an urban legend, but if you change the direction of rotation of your ceiling fans to clockwise, it will blow cold air up instead of down. This will force warm air trapped at the ceiling down to the ground. There should be a switch on your fan that will enable you to do this.

Trees:
There was a reason evergreens were planted so close to many properties; it creates a windbreak! This can save up to 30% on energy costs. Consider planting some of these resilient trees on your property.

Doors:
Install storm doors! This can save up to 45% on your energy bill. Using draft guards under your doors keeps heat from escaping.

Chimney Balloon:
As I’m sure you know, your chimney is a huge source of heat loss in the winter. If you’re not actively using your fireplace, it’s smart to plug up the hole is a chimney balloon to keep drafts out.

We hope you stay warm this winter and get a chance to utilize these efficient tips!

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