Winter can be a challenging season for homeowners. Dealing with harsh temperatures and higher energy bills can put a strain on your family and your budget. But preparing your home for winter is a proactive way to protect what matters most—your home, your budget, and your family’s safety.
Here are eight easy and effective tips for homeowners to stay warm and safe throughout the winter.
Tips for Keeping Your Home Warm & Saving Energy
- Switch Your Ceiling Fan: Since heat rises, set your fan to run clockwise on a low speed. This will push warm air down and circulate it throughout the room, creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere without cranking up the heat.
- Insulate Your Attic: You could be losing a significant amount of heat through your attic if it isn’t properly insulated. Adding insulation is a smart investment that can keep vital warmth inside your home and lead to noticeable savings on your energy bill.
- Turn Down Your Water Heater: Most water heaters are set higher than necessary. By turning yours down to 120°F, you can save money on your energy bill without sacrificing a warm shower.
- Regulate Your Thermostat: A simple adjustment can make a big difference. Lowering the temperature on your thermostat while you’re not home or asleep can help you keep your energy bill low. Consider a smart thermostat to make this even easier!
- Consider Upgrading Windows: Older, uninsulated windows are a common source of heat loss. Replacing them with newer, energy-efficient windows can help your home retain heat and provide a significant return on your investment over time.
Tips for Protecting Your Home from Damage
- Turn Off Outdoor Water Flow: Don’t let a freezing pipe surprise you! Turning off the water supply to your outdoor spigots is a simple, yet critical, step to prevent burst pipes and costly water damage.
- Clear Out Your Gutters: As the leaves fall, your gutters can fill up with debris. If left unchecked, this can lead to ice buildup and leaks, which can damage your roof and foundation. Clearing them out before the first snow is a great way to manage this risk.
- Regular Chimney Maintenance: If your home has a chimney, ensuring it’s clean and properly maintained is a crucial safety measure. It not only saves you money in the long run but also helps keep your home and family safe from fire hazards.
At Parkway Insurance Group, caring makes the difference. Taking these simple steps to prepare your home for winter helps you stay warm and safe and also provides invaluable peace of mind. As always, we’re here to help you review your home insurance to ensure you have the right protection for whatever the season brings.
