Although warm temperatures continue to linger in some areas of the country, winter will be here before you know it. Many homeowners dread the colder months due to increased health issues, pest invasions, and the need for necessary repairs.
Before winter arrives, it’s essential to conduct a quick audit and ensure your home is prepared. After all, this may be your last chance to do so before the colder weather sets in. As you plan to winterize your home, consider some budget-friendly solutions. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to spend top dollar to keep your home cozy and your family healthy all season long.
Here are some quick ideas that won’t break the bank.
Heating Your Home
Your first priority this winter is keeping your family cozy and warm. Like most homeowners, you probably want to heat your home on a budget. Although you might be tempted to crank up the heat, doing so is bad for your budget and your family’s health.
Cleveland Clinic warns that “dry winter air can cause respiratory problems — from bronchitis to nosebleeds.” Additionally, dry air has been linked to a wide range of skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. So, to keep heating costs low and health issues at bay, you might try one (or more) of the following options.
● Use a fan. Although using a ceiling fan might seem counter intuitive during cold months, fans help push warm air down from the ceiling. According to HomeAdvisor, switching your ceiling fan’s rotation helps warm your home by moving the air downwards; this DIY trick saves you up to 10 percent off your heating costs. When using fans in the winter, dust them regularly to avoid allergy attacks, dry skin, and respiratory health issues.
● Clean the chimney. Does your home have a working fireplace? If so, it’s best to hire a professional chimney inspector to clean your fireplace and chimney before wintertime. During the cleaning, the AARP also recommends removing “animal nests or other blockages” that could lead to potential house fires.
● Seal any cracks. If your windows are drafty or you’ve noticed one part of the house is colder than other rooms, cracks may be the culprit. Warm air leaving your home can increase the costs of your heating bill. Repairing these issues before cold weather sets in can save you from having to crank the heat up all winter. Weatherstripping, caulk, or DIY vinyl seals can help lower your bill and keep your family comfortable.
Preventing Pests
One winter threat many homeowners overlook is pest control. When the weather gets colder, many pests are drawn to the warmer indoor temperatures. Luckily, you don’t have to let insects, rodents, or other creepy crawlers get cozy in your home.
BobVila.com recommends hiring a local energy service provider to audit your home. In addition to saving you money on your heating bill, these professionals can find and seal tiny cracks or holes that pests might use to enter your house.
While you’re at it, fix any leaky faucets. Plumbing issues not only increase your utility costs, but they also provide a damp environment that bugs love.
Repairs to Consider
While prepping your home for the winter, US News advises adding insulation, cleaning your gutters, and hiring a professional to inspect your HVAC system. These essential repairs are cost-effective and will help prevent hazards or loss of heat during the winter.
Every homeowner wants a warm, cozy home that will keep them safe and healthy throughout the winter. Instead of waiting until the cold weather arrives, now’s the time to get a head start on winterizing your home. By prioritizing simple steps like sealing cracks and utilizing ceiling fans, you’ll save money on utility bills. Best of all, you’ll reduce your family’s chances of experiencing certain illnesses, like respiratory issues and skin conditions. The steps you take now will not only save you money, but they’ll also keep your family warm, healthy, and happy all winter long.