Simple Winterization Projects for Your Home
There are many great ways to save money on your heating bills this winter aside from getting a heater tune up. You don't have to freeze in order to save money. With these winterization tips, you'll save energy without spending much money (and you might even qualify for $500-$1,500 in tax credits). Read on for a few ways to get you going on cutting costs with our helpful energy saving home winterization tips.
1. Dodge the Draft(s)
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts can waste 5% to 30% of your energy use. In the great depression they came up with all sorts of great ways to dodge drafts and keep their homes warmer. One of these was the draft snake. Simply put, a rolled up towel stuffed under a drafty door. You can also make a more attractive draft snakes with some fabric scraps or neckties filled with sand, rice or kitty litter. Don't forget to add googly eyes and a piece of red felt for the tongue. Kids will love this craft project and you can stuff them under doors and windows to stop those cold drafts from pouring into your home. Make several and put them in all the windows and under all of the doors in your home.
2. Change Furnace Filters
Change your furnace filter monthly during peak heating season. Dirty filters restrict airflow and increase energy demand. Here's a worry-saving tip: mark a monthly check on your calendar. Mark it on your calendar and make it a part of your annual winter preparation routine. Many people use a permanent filter to reduce waste. A disposable filter will only trap ten to forty percent of the bacteria such as mold, viruses and pollens that can cause you to be sick. An electrostatic filter will trap approximately eighty eight percent and will help to control this bacteria much better. For an average cost of $50 to $1000 or more you can be done with bacteria forever. You could also use a HEPA filter which should remove up to ninety nine percent of the airborne particulates. Make sure you get one that is properly energy rated from the Department of Energy.If your entire furnace is in need of replacement, it will cost a lot more -- but replacing an inefficient burner for a modern machine will save you every month through the heating season. You could actually wind up saving thousands in your heating costs over the year. If your furnace is outdated, update it now before winter sets in and sucks away your energy.
3. Run Your Fan In Reverse
If you have a ceiling fan, run it in reverse in the winter. Counterclockwise rotation produces cooling breezes while switching to clockwise makes it warmer: air pooled near the ceiling is circulated back into the living space - cutting your heating costs as much as 10%!4. Winterize Your A/C and Water Lines
This one's really easy, and it will even save you a few pennies next summer, too: Simply drain any hoses and air conditioner pipes, and make sure you don't have excess water pooled in equipment. Shut off water when necessary.Seal off cold drafty areas in and around water lines and air conditioning units while you're at it. Turn off exterior water spigots. It's also a good idea to seal any water leaks around the place -- and don't forget to remove any window A/C units and store them so you don't invite cold drafts all winter. If it doesn't adjust it so that it does, remove the unit or invest in a better more secure cover that blocks the cold air flow. New air conditioners can often be reimbursed up to thirty percent of the overall cost or up to $1500 depending upon the unit and the tax breaks available each year.
5. Turn Down Your Water Heater
Set your water heater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit and no higher. You'll save yourself from being scalded and you'll save hundreds of dollars in heating costs over the course of the year. Consider a solar water heater and save even more on your water heating costs. If you are in the market for a new water heater, take advantage of the federal tax credit, which pays 30% of the cost for solar water heaters, or up to $1,500 for conventional systems. (Note: 2011 tax credits are less generous.)6. Install Storm Doors and Windows
Installing storm doors can increase your homes energy efficiency by up to forty five percent. You'll seal drafts and reduce the cold air flow into your home. Storm doors also offer greater flexibility for letting light and ventilation enter your home. Look for Energy Star-certified models.Similarly, storm windows can make a huge difference when the cold wind starts blowing. Storm windows will help to block this draft and allow you to take advantage of extra light which can easily help heat your home.
7. Give Your Heating System a Tune-Up
You probably already know that cars need periodic tune-ups in order to run their best. Have your furnace serviced annually by a professional or learn how to service it yourself. It should be vacuumed, cleaned and lubricated annually. This will save you up to five percent of all of your heating costs.Many company's offer a free annual check up by their qualified technicians. Call early or schedule your appointment far in advance. It's always wise to pre plan so if you schedule your appointment a few months from now you're more likely to get the date that works the best for you.
