Insulation Weatherstripping is one form of insulation and is a material most homeowners are familiar with because it’s easy to use, yet highly effective. Use strips around any gaps in doors and windows. With a quick trip to the home improvement store, you can also pick up insulation specifically sized for outlets and light switches. These thin sheets of insulation protect against drafts and are quick to install. Also, pick up a water heater blanket. This product is inexpensive, easy to install, and helps your water heater work more efficiently — and cost effectively. Roof Check Roof repairs and replacements are one of the most expensive projects homeowners face. Most newer roofs can be trusted to reliably protect your home. However, as your roof begins to age, you should perform annual inspections. Look for loose, damaged, or missing shingles. Also check the flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights. This is a common area for leaks but an easy fix if caught early. While you have the ladders out, be sure to give your gutters a good cleaning. Remove all debris, and run water from a hose through the system to ensure your gutters and downspouts are working properly.
significant draft, so it’s best to remove them, but if that isn’t an option, insulate around the outside edges and cover the unit to protect it from the elements.
Clean Exhaust Vents Throughout the House
Appliance and exhaust fans work hard to keep the air in your home clean and your appliances working at optimal levels. Before winter settles in, check each vent in your home. This includes the range hood. Remove and clean the grease build-up from filters, and wipe down any noticeable grime. For the refrigerator, wipe out the vents along the bottom. Then, move to the clothes dryer. It’s best to pull the machine out and disconnect the hose. Lint buildup is a major cause of house fires, so ensure the hose is cleaned out from the unit through the vent exiting the outdoor wall. Also, remove the lint trap inside the dryer. It should be emptied after every load of laundry, but once a year or more, be sure to thoroughly clean the screen and vacuum out the area below/behind it where lint can collect. You probably have other exhaust fans in the home, such as those in the bathrooms. Remove and clean the covers. Then, clean out buildup inside the units.
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