The last few weeks of winter is usually the coldest, which is why keeping your indoors warm is essential. Passive insulation like dual-glazed insulated windows and blown-in insulation does most of the work keeping stable indoor temperatures, but you can also do the following tips in case to better keep your home warm and comfortable.
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Keep a well-maintained heating system – By keeping your heating system in top shape, you make it more efficient, and can help lower your energy consumption by up to 15%. Keep the filters cleaned every month and replace when needed any corrosion issues you find. The latter could cause leaks that may compromise your heating system’s performance.
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Use a programmable thermostat – An automatically-adjusting thermostat isn’t just for convenience: it can also help save energy by automatically reducing heating in a room when there’s no one using it.
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Have an energy audit conducted – Energy audits are ideally done before winter, but it doesn’t mean you can’t set an appointment for when winter is over. An energy audit conducted by a BPI-accredited contractor such as ourselves can find out if your home insulation will need to be reinforced or replaced, among other things. Regular energy audits (ideally every two years) will not just help you find problem areas, it can also prolong the service lives of your home’s parts.
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Don’t ignore drafts – Drafts indicate leaky windows and are more noticeable during winter. The key to preventing drafts is making sure that windows and doors are sealed tight when shut. Go around the house and take note which windows have drafts, as well as window panes that are cold to the touch. You will likely need to have these windows repaired or replaced.
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Roof repairs – A leaky roof can compromise your home’s energy efficiency. Schedule a roofing inspection to see whether the roof requires repair or replacement. Consider taking preventive measures by having the roof regularly maintained by a reliable roofer.
WMGB Home Improvement serves residents in and around Grand Rapids, MI. To know more on how we can help keep you home warm this winter, or for our other services such as ice dam removal, call us today at (616) 328-6625 or fill out our contact form to set an appointment for a free, no-obligation quote.
