Ice Ice Baby

How to protect your home and save money during the winter season!

The winter season is upon middle Tennessee. With electric bills higher than usual, and the cold drafts coming in – here is a winterize home checklist to help lower your energy bill while maintaining the heat in your home.

Winter Maintenance Checklist

WINTERIZE HOME CHECKLIST

  1. Check the gutters.
    If you have gutters alongside your building, to help prevent ice build up, be sure to clean all debris. This will allow the ice to melt and water to flow more freely. If possible, look into installing gutter guards to help aid preventive care in the future.
  2. Protect the pipes.
    Protect against frozen pipes by keeping a steady drip of water running in a few faucets – focus on the pipes in outer edge rooms.  If possible, try to insulate those that could be susceptible to freezing to guard from freezing and bursting.
    Renting a home and notice exposed pipes that aren’t insulated? Contact your management company and let them know so they can address the issue. 
  3. Clean your dryer hose.
    Perform your annual dryer hose inspection and cleaning. This will help prevent fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and help save energy. Check out our pinterest for tips on how to do this.
  4. Utilize the power of the sun.
    Keep your blinds and curtains open during the day. This allows the sun to stream in and provide natural heating. Be sure to close them at night to help retain that heat!
  5. Adjust your thermostat.
    Adjusting your thermostat dependent on the time of day will help you save! Set your thermostat for an optimum 68 degrees and turn it down while away or asleep.
  6.  Have your heating serviced.
    Furnaces, boilers and chimneys should be serviced at least once a year. This is the perfect time to do so to help keep them running efficiently and prevent any buildup. If you rent a home, make sure to change house air filters quarterly and let your management company know of any issues as soon as they arise. 
  7. Test your smoke detectors.
    Residential fires are more common in the winter season. Check your smoke detectors monthly and replace the batteries as needed. Need help? Check out this article for more tips from firefighters!
  8. Reverse your fan direction.
    Reverse your ceiling fan direction to help move warm air downwards. This should be done seasonally to help circulate air appropriately.

Winterizing your home can take some time, but can ultimately help prevent house damages and save money on utilities/energy! By being proactive with the season, you can have ease of mind while spending those chilly nights snuggled up in your home.