Be Sure to Winterize Your Home Before Winter Is Here

Taking a weekend to winterize your home before the snow arrives can help you prevent high heating bills and an uncomfortable home. Over time, the energy efficiency of your home starts to fall. Restoring or improving its efficiency prevents the heat loss and air infiltration that contribute to high energy costs.

Windows

Check the windows inside and out for leaks around the frames. Caulk around the frames. Examine the fit of the windows by closing and locking them. A locked window should be draft-free. If not, consider using weatherstripping.

Unless you have dual- or triple-pane windows, the indoor heat will seep outdoors continuously through the glass. In order to cut the heat loss, install window insulation kits. A more aesthetic approach is to hang thermal drapes, although they will only help when they’re closed.

Exterior Doors

Look for light shining between exterior doors and their frames. Use weatherstripping to fill the gaps. Draft stoppers at the base of the door will stop heat loss and air infiltration. A storm door will act as an insulating buffer against the cold outdoor air.

Heating System

Don’t neglect your furnace or boiler when you winterize your home. As the homeowner, change the filter monthly when the furnace is running daily. Schedule preventive maintenance with Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning at the start of the heating season. Our technicians will go through your entire system as they winterize your home, cleaning, adjusting the parts, and verifying the safety features.

We may turn up small issues that could escalate into larger problems if left unattended. The inspection can help you avoid downtime when you most need the heat.

How to Winterize Your Home Outside

• Remove any debris in the gutters. This helps prevent ice dams from forming, which are a hazard to you and your home.
• Turn off the water to the hoses and bring them indoors for the winter. Make sure that the water to the outside is also turned off to prevent frozen pipes.
• Either cover or bring in the patio furniture, including grills.

The pros at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning will inspect and fine-tune your HVAC as you winterize your Lorain-area home. Please contact us today to learn more.