If you’re interested in saving money during the fall and winter, take the time to prepare your home before the cold weather arrives. Use these low-cost tips to increase your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your heating bills.
Weatherization Tips for Illinois Residents
- Residents of Gurnee can expect at least five severe winter storms along with sub-zero temperatures and plenty of snow. Prepare for winter weather by filling your heating oil tank and preparing an emergency kit that includes your medications.
- If you use a furnace or heat pump, have the HVAC ducts inspected. When you’re paying for heating oil and electricity, you don’t want your hard-earned dollars to escape through cracks in the ductwork.
- Use pipe insulation to protect water lines from freezing temperatures. Inexpensive foam wraps can prevent burst pipes and raise the water temperature by 2 to 4 degrees.
- Weatherization is essential to keep the cold air out and to prevent heated air from escaping. Check for drafts. Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal gaps around doors, windows and utility openings.
- More than 30 percent of air leaks come from floors, walls, and ceilings. If you plan on adding insulation, seal the air leaks first. Then, you can insulate your attic and basement. Most homes built before 1970 can benefit from additional insulation.
- Schedule a furnace service visit in early fall. Heating tuneups increase efficiency and prevent potential health hazards, such as carbon monoxide buildup caused by incomplete combustion. Maintenance can also help you avoid breakdowns and emergency repairs.
Preparing For the Heating Season
State-sponsored programs offer numerous guides for increasing energy efficiency and helping residents stay safe and warm. You can learn more about the benefits of annual furnace service visits online or by calling Herchenbach Mechanical Inc. at (847) 260-9335.
