As the days get shorter and the air gets colder most people start to pull out the sweaters and down comforters preparing themselves for winter. Many people don't think twice about what they need to do to get their home ready for winter. Below are some helpful tips to make your home more energy efficient so you can be comfy and cozy all winter long.
Every Fall
SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS & FIRE EXTENGUISHERS:
- Check to make sure they are operating properly.
- Also consider installing a carbon monoxide detector if you don't currently have any.
- Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher rated for all fire types (look for an A-B-C rating on the label). At a minimum, keep one near the kitchen; having one per floor isn't a bad idea. Annually, check the indicator on the pressure gauge to make sure the extinguisher is charged. Make certain that the lock pin is intact and firmly in place, and check that the discharge nozzle is not clogged. Clean the extinguisher and check it for dents, scratches, and corrosion. Replace if the damage seems severe. Note: Fire extinguishers that are more than six years old should be replaced. Mark the date of purchase on the new unit with a permanent marker.
CLEAN CARPETING, UPHOLSTERY, DRAPERIES AND AIR DUCTS:
- Have your carpets, upholstery and draperies cleaned regularly, once every 12 to 18 months, to remove the dirt and grit that can wear them out prematurely.
- Consider having the air ducts in your home cleaned if family members suffer excessively from respiratory infections asthma or allergies, there is visible mold growth inside ducts or on other components of your heating and cooling system, the ducts are infested with insects or rodents, or excessive amounts of dust and debris and/or particles are actually released into the home from your supply registers.
FORCED AIR HEATING SYSTEM:
- Before turning on your unit, make sure nothing flammable has been stored next to the furnace over the summer. Also, change the filters regularly. Be sure all access panels are secure, with all the screws in place. Be sure the thermostat is set in the heating mode. Run your heater for a few minutes to burn off the dust that usually collects on the heat exchanger over the summer (don't worry, that smell is normal) and to make sure it is in working order before you need it. Arrange for service calls before the start of heating and cooling season to get better attention and have more flexibility when scheduling appointments.
- Consider hiring a pro to perform a furnace maintenance check-up, including these steps:
- Inspect thermostat for proper operation.
- Inspect filter and change or clean as needed.
- Check all electrical components and controls.
- Oil motors as needed
- Inspect heat exchanger for possible cracks, which would introduce carbon monoxide into the living space.
- Check airflow. If diminished, it may be necessary to clean the evaporator coil and ductwork.
- Check air fuel mixture, where appropriate.
- Here are signs that you should have an inspection performed sooner:
- Noisy belts. Unusual screeches or whines may be a signal that belts connected to the blower motor are worn or damaged.
- Poor performance. A heating system that doesn't seem to work as well as it once did could be a sign of various problems. Your heating ducts might be blocked, the burners might be misadjusted, or the blower motor could be on its last legs. One check you should be sure to conduct: Make sure your furnace filter is clean.
- Erratic behavior. This could be caused by a faulty thermostat or a misadjusted furnace.
DOOR AND WINDOW WEATHER-STRIPPING:
- Weather-stripping is easily the most cost-effective way to rein in heating and cooling costs. This humble material also reduces drafts and keeps your home more comfortable year-round. Because weather stripping can deteriorate over time, it is important to inspect it periodically.
- If you suspect a problem with weather stripping, you have several options for checking. Close a door or window on a strip of paper; if the paper slides easily, your weather-stripping isn't doing its job. Or, close the door or window and hold a lighted candle near the frame. (Don't let the flame get near anything flammable!) If the flame flickers at any spot along the frame, you have an air leak.
- While you're at it, also check for missing or damaged caulk around windows, doors, and entry points for electrical, cable, phone, gas, and so. Seal any gaps with a suitable caulk.
- Make sure the weather-stripping on the door between your garage and home is intact to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
GARAGE DOORS:
- Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks; tighten screws.
- If serious repair is required, hire a garage door pro.
PEST CONTROL:
- Remember, insects and other critters would naturally prefer to come indoors out of the rain and cold, if possible, as winter sets in.
- Make sure all vents and other openings are covered and spray for insects along perimeter of house if you don't have a regular pest control service.
WATER HEATER:
- Every six months you should turn off the power source and drain it completely until it's clear of sediment.
- Also inspect flue assembly (gas heater); check for leaks and corrosion.
- Consult a service professional if any damage is evident.
PIPES:
- Check your pipes for rust or white lime deposits that may indicate a leak is starting - replace if necessary.
- Check for leaking around the outside hose bibs.
- Install insulation around outdoor water pipes to protect from freezing.
GENERAL CLEANUP:
- Rid your home of accumulations of old newspapers and leftover hazardous household chemicals. (Check with your state or local Environmental Protection Agency about the proper way to discard dangerous chemicals.) Store flammable materials and poisons in approved, clearly labeled containers. Keep a clear space around heaters, furnaces, and other heat-producing appliances.
