October’s Action: Get Your Home Ready For Winter

Weatherize your home

03 Oct October’s Action: Get Your Home Ready For Winter

Posted at 08:21h in EcoHomes by

As the cooler weather starts to roll in, it’s the perfect time to think about weatherizing your home for the winter. Not only will this keep you warm and cozy, but it can also help save money on energy bills! A few simple upgrades and tweaks can go a long way in making your home more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Technologies Office, the residential sector accounts for about 21% of total U.S. Energy consumption, so weatherizing our homes for Maine winters is a key step we can take in fighting climate change and  #SavingPlanetHome.

Let’s walk through some easy steps to weatherize your home.

1. Seal Those Drafts

Drafty windows and doors are some of the biggest energy thieves in your home. Even small gaps can let the cold air in and allow heat to escape. You can quickly fix this with inexpensive tools like weather stripping or caulking. Check for gaps around your doors, windows, and any other areas that feel drafty, and seal them up to keep the warmth inside. Don’t forget the attic, where sealing techniques can prevent significant heating loss.

2. Use Door Draft Stoppers

Draft stoppers (sometimes called draft snakes) are simple and affordable tools that can block drafts under doors. You can easily make one yourself or purchase one from your local hardware store. It’s an easy way to stop the cold from sneaking in!

3. Insulate, Insulate, Insulate

Proper insulation is key to keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Make sure your attic, walls, and floors are well-insulated. Insulate hot water pipes that are accessible with foam insulating tubes. If you’re not sure whether your home is adequately insulated, consider having an energy audit done or check out websites like Efficiency Maine and  Energy.gov, which have easy-to-understand guides on insulation.

4. Upgrade Your Windows

Remove AC units. Use curtains and shades to let the sun in and keep the shades drawn at night to prevent heat loss.

If your windows are old or single-pane, they can be letting out the heat. If replacing windows isn’t in your budget, adding storm windows or using heavy, insulated curtains can add an extra layer of protection. Consider installing custom made window inserts which are a local, inexpensive alternative to storm windows.

The upcoming Freeport Community WindowDressers Build is a great opportunity to have inserts custom built for your windows –  Sign up here by October 14 to receive window inserts fabricated by volunteers at our Community Build happening November 11-18. You can also sign up to help build inserts for others here.

5. Install a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a simple and effective way to save on energy costs. You can set it to lower the temperature when you’re not home or at night while you sleep. By adjusting your heating schedule, you can stay comfortable and still save money. Look into options like the Nest or Ecobee thermostats, which are both user-friendly and help with energy savings.

6. Wrap the Hot Water Heater

On-demand water heaters are often the most efficient choice, since water is only heated when it’s in use. For electric hot water tanks, try wrapping them in an insulating blanket to reduce heat loss. Be sure to check the temperature of your water heater. Often the temperature is set at 140 degrees when in most cases a 120-degree setting is adequate.

7. Reduce Water Waste

Promptly repair leaks, install low-flow showerheads and faucets. Wash clothes on a shorter wash cycle.

8. Service Your Heating System

Your heating system works hard to keep you warm, so it’s important to make sure it’s running efficiently. Schedule a tune-up before winter hits to clean and inspect your furnace or heat pump. Clean filters and well-maintained systems can lower your energy bills and prevent costly breakdowns.

9. Consider Energy-Efficient Products

Energy-efficient products like LED light bulbs and energy-efficient appliances can have a big impact on reducing your energy usage year-round. Look for products with the ENERGY STAR label, which means they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. Fight phantom power consumption. Plug countertop appliances and electronic devices into a power bar and program it to switch off at night.

By taking a few simple steps, you can create a more energy-efficient home that saves you money, reduces your carbon footprint, creates a more comfortable and sustainable living space and keeps you warm all winter long. Happy weatherizing!

Explore Additional Resources

Want to dive a little deeper into weatherizing your home? There are great resources available online:

  • Energy.gov has a helpful section on weatherizing your home with tips and guides for all types of projects.
  • The U.S. Department of Energy offers an online tool to find local weatherization assistance programs that might offer help, especially if you qualify for financial assistance.
  • Consumer Reports has reviews and guides on the best energy-efficient appliances and products to help you make informed choices.
  • Check out Freeport Climate Action Now’s Freeport Area Consumer Green Guide and discover where to buy resale, repair and recycle nearly everything you need. It’s a searchable directory for local eco-friendly services, products, businesses and more.

For specific and exacting guidance for your home, reach out to a home energy advisor through: