The Chicago area gets frigid in wintertime, but your home should be a cozy, toasty refuge against the chill in the air. So if you’re feeling cold inside your house, or if you’re seeing your hard-earned dollars going out the window to pay high utility bills, you may need to do something to fix it.
Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take, from your heating system to your doors & windows, to give your home the warm, energy efficient interior you deserve. Here’s how.
Your Heating System
The first place to start is with your overall HVAC system, as this is a big culprit of high energy costs during winter.
Inspect Your Furnace
Having a simple annual check of your furnace is an easy way to ensure it runs smoothly. A professional can give you an inspection, check for issues such as carbon monoxide leaks, and replace old, dirty filters with clean, new ones.
Manage Your Thermostat
If your heating unit constantly kicks on, that’ll drive up your energy costs, so turn your thermostat down a couple of degrees and wear a sweater. Install a programmable thermostat that you can set to be lower at night and when you’re out of the house.
Winterize Your Water Heater
To manage your use of hot water in winter, lower the temperature on your water heater by at least a few degrees. Take short showers rather than long baths, and install low-flow shower heads to reduce water use.
Windows and Doors
Next, take a look at the places that tend to be most drafty in your home.
Seal Gaps around Doors and Windows
Gaps around doors and window frames allow heated indoor air to flee and cold outside air to penetrate your home. Caulk where needed around windows. Install a door sweep to the bottom of the door. (That’s a nylon broom-like attachment that blocks drafts.) Or, use a door snake—a long, beanbag-like device that you can lay at the bottom of your front door to block drafts.
Apply Cold-Resistant Film to Window Glass
Create a quick, handy seal for your windowpanes by covering them with plastic film. Window film insulation kits come with plastic sealant and tape, and you’ll need a hairdryer to seal the film in place. Another quick fix is to adhere thick bubble wrap to windows, which helps create an insulating effect that can also help reduce condensation.
Hang Heavy Drapes
If you’re not into the idea of film sealant or bubble wrap, invest in thick window coverings. Some curtains are made to provide insulating value, and you can always open them on sunny days to take advantage of the sunlight’s heating rays.
Interior Rooms
Finally, check your interior for other ways to boost a little more warmth without turning up the thermostat.
Free Up Radiators and Heating Grates
Blocked vents don’t work as efficiently as clear vents. Make sure furniture doesn’t cover heating grates, and move furnishings away from radiators to allow for better air flow.
Use Fireplace Sparingly
While a roaring fire is comforting and fun, your chimney’s flue can allow a lot of cold air to come inside your home. Limit using your fireplace to days when it’s not too frigid, and close the flue after use to prevent draftiness.
Add Insulation
Putting new insulation in your attic can help prevent heated air from escaping through your roof.
A More Efficient Home Will Keep You Comfortable Year-Round
These winter tips are useful, but you may need more permanent solutions too. If your windows, doors and siding are aging, it may be time to upgrade to more energy-efficient solutions. The knowledgeable team at Siding & Windows Group is here to help. We’ll explain your options so you find the best solution for your greater Chicago area home.
