The weather is turning cooler, and the nights are growing longer. Saving more energy on your energy bill this winter will depend largely on what you do now to prepare.


Follow these steps to help make your home more comfortable and energy efficient for the arrival of cold weather.


1. Seal air leaks

Check for gaps or cracks around windows and exterior doors. Replace old caulk around windows with new siliconized caulk. Seal gaps around doors with weatherstripping and door sweeps. Also check your attic and basement for leaks around light fixtures, plumbing and wiring access, or where a wall meets floor or ceiling joists. Many of these gaps can be filled with caulk or expandable foam insulation, depending on the size. For larger gaps, such as where wall meeting joists, cut out and stuff with pieces of batt insulation.


2. Check insulation

Hire a qualified contractor to help ensure that the walls and ceiling of your home are insulated according to recommended levels for your area. Install insulation as needed.


3. Maintain your heating system

Hire a qualified technician to inspect and clean your heating system before the winter season hits. A dirty furnace filter can restrict air flow, making your heating system work harder to keep you comfortable. Replace your furnace filter regularly throughout the season. Also, make sure registers and vents are not blocked by rugs or furniture, which can also restrict air flow and reduce comfort.


4. Adjust your thermostat

Adjusting your thermostat is quite simply the most cost-effective way to help reduce energy bills. Lowering temperatures at night or when no one is at home can help save more energy. To optimize savings and convenience, install a programmable thermostat. You can set it to automatically adjust temperatures based on your preferences and schedule. Newer smart models offer advanced features, such as remote control.


5. Check your chimney

Your chimney is an outlet for the warm air generated by your furnace. If your fireplace is not in use, keep the damper of your chimney closed to help prevent warm air to escape through the chimney. Check the seal on the flue damper to make sure it is as snug as possible. You could also consider installing tempered glass doors and a heat exchange system that blows warm air back inside your home.


6. Get a home energy audit

Autumn is the perfect time to schedule a home energy audit. You auditor will inspect your home and run a series of tests to find where you could be saving more energy. You'll receive a customized improvement recommendations that, when implemented, will help reduce your energy bills and improve the comfort of your home this winter and all year long.


In This Edition