Tips to Winterizing Your Home

You likely get your winter clothing out in the fall and perhaps even prepare your car for the colder weather. Your Spruce Avenue new home also should be winterized. Getting your home ready for the winter can keep you more comfortable, potentially save you money on mid-season repairs and protect your investment. Here are some winterizing tips for your home.

Take Care of Your HVAC System

One of the easiest, economical steps you can take is changing air filters for your furnace. Furnace filters are inexpensive and simple to change. Getting a furnace clean and tune-up can also help ensure your heating system is ready for another season of cold weather. Find a reputable HVAC contractor to conduct your furnace clean and tune-up.

Check for Air Leaks

Leaks allow warm air to escape and cold air to enter your home. Doors and windows are notorious for leaking air, especially in older homes. Spray in foam insulation can help fill smaller leaks and can even be trimmed and painted to be more aesthetically appealing. If windows are really bad, consider covering them with a clear plastic that can be shrunk with a hairdryer for a nice, finished look.

Clean Your Gutters

Clogged gutters can freeze causing untold roof and even foundational problems throughout the winter. Make sure gutters are clean and smooth running for better drainage and more peace of mind.

Reverse Ceiling Fans

Many don't realize that reversing ceiling fans in colder weather can help reduce fuel costs. This is because heat rises and reversing the fans forces that warmed air back down to better heat a room and its occupants. This can help minimize heating bills no matter what your main fuel source is.

Get a Programmable or “Smart” Thermostat

A programmable or smart thermostat can pay for itself in fuel savings. This will allow you to turn your thermostat down when the home is empty and have it nice and warm for you when you come home. A smart thermostat can be simply controlled from your phone even when on a long weekend or vacation. Also look into other smart home options for winterizing your Canadian home.

Winterizing your home doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming and most projects are DIY. Take care of your home and it will take care of you!