As temperatures drop and the first official day of winter approaches, it’s essential to prepare and maintain your home to ensure a safe and energy-efficient season. At Peoples Bank & Trust, we understand the importance of protecting your home and saving on energy costs. Here are some winter home maintenance tips to help you do just that.
Prepare Your Home’s Exterior
Before the harsh winter weather sets in, make sure to:
- Clean and inspect your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, causing water damage to your home.
- Trim tree branches and shrubs to prevent damage from snow and ice.
- Seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior, including windows and doors.
- Install storm windows or replace old windows with energy-efficient ones.
- Test your sump pump to ensure it works correctly. A functioning sump pump can prevent basement flooding during winter thaws.
Insulate and Seal Your Home’s Interior
To keep the warm air in and the cold air out, make sure to:
- Insulate your attic, walls, and floors to prevent heat loss.
- Seal any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets.
- Install weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent air leaks.
- Use area rugs and curtains to add an extra layer of insulation.
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements and garages to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
- Use a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature when you’re not home.
Maintain Your Heating System
To ensure your heating system is running efficiently and safely, make sure to:
- Have your heating system serviced by a professional before the winter season, especially if you are a new homeowner.
- Change your furnace filter regularly to improve air quality and efficiency.
- Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace or heat pump.
Conserve Energy and Lower Your Bills
To keep your energy bills low, make sure to:
- Adjust your thermostat to use less energy when you’re not home or sleeping.
- Use energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances.
- Unplug electronics and appliances when not in use to avoid standby power consumption.
- Consider installing solar panels or a programmable thermostat.
- Keep curtains and blinds open during the day to let in natural sunlight.
Consider a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
If you’re looking to make energy-efficient upgrades to your home, consider using a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) from Peoples Bank & Trust. A HELOC allows you to tap into the equity in your home and use the funds to make improvements that can increase your property value and save you money on energy costs. Check out more details here! By following these winter home maintenance tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a cozy and worry-free winter while also protecting your home and saving on energy costs. And, if you’re looking to make energy-efficient upgrades, consider using a HELOC from Peoples Bank & Trust.
