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Fall Home Energy Check-Up
by Ann Safford
As much as we're still sweating the summer heat, one thing you can count on is an upcoming winter. It's never to early to take a close look at your house and think ahead of the ways you can save money on your energy bill. Taking a few hours in the fall warmth is easier than trudging through knee-deep snow! If it's not possible for you to perform an energy audit on your own, most utility companies will come to your home for free and perform one for you.
Check the exterior walls for cracks or holes where air might escape. Pay close attention to bricks or where siding meets. Hold a candle near a potential trouble spot and you'll be able to notice drafts. Use caulking or weather stripping to seal up the areas.
Check your heating system, or have a professional come to do a proper inspection to make sure it's clean and good running order. Not only does a clean machine last longer; it also saves a lot of energy.
Take a look at your attic insulation and make sure it's sufficient. This helps maintain the heat stays in your house, rather than leaking out. Adding insulation if needed, is relatively inexpensive versus the cost of all the lost energy.
Check your shingles for wear and tear and make sure they are in decent shape. Seal any skylights or other areas where heat might escape.
Consider installing a programmable thermostat, to save up to 20% of your overall heating costs.
Taking the time to perform an energy audit only makes sense. Keeping your home running more efficiently is going to be important, more than ever, this winter!
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Ann Safford
Ann is a freelance writer who lives in Massachusetts with her husband, three children and a multitude of pets including her dog, two cats, a horse and six chickens. She enjoys writing about natural living, simple lifestyles and frugal living. Her hobbies include spending time with her family, horseback riding and gardening.
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