As winter approaches, homeowners across the United States are bracing for the seasonal spike in energy costs. However, there’s a silver lining in this year’s forecast.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) 2024 Winter Fuels Outlook, most American households expect to pay about the same for heating as last winter despite predictions of colder temperatures.1
From simple DIY tricks to smart investments, here are the nine inexpensive yet powerful improvements that could keep you cozy and potentially offset any increases in energy costs.
1. Seal Air Leaks
One of the most effective ways to winter-proof your home is by sealing air leaks around doors and windows. These sneaky gaps can let precious warm air escape and allow cold drafts to enter, forcing your heating system to work overtime.
Start by inspecting your home’s exterior for any visible cracks or gaps. Use caulk to seal small openings and weatherstripping for larger gaps around doors and windows.
Consider applying plastic film insulation to your windows for an extra layer of protection. This simple DIY project can reduce heat loss for single-pane windows.
2. Insulate Your Pipes
Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs and water damage. Protect your plumbing by insulating exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
Foam pipe insulation is an affordable and easy-to-install option. Simply cut the foam to size and wrap it around your pipes. For hard-to-reach areas or irregular pipe shapes, consider using insulation tape.
This small investment can prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of burst pipes during extreme cold spells.
3. Clean Your Gutters
While often overlooked, clean gutters protect your home during winter. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause water to back up and seep into your home’s interior.
Before the first freeze, remove leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters. Ensure downspouts are clear and direct water away from your home’s foundation.
If you’re uncomfortable on a ladder, consider hiring a professional. Gutter cleaning costs far less than repairing water damage caused by ice dams.
4. Upgrade Your Thermostat
A smart thermostat can significantly reduce heating costs while keeping your home comfortable. These devices learn your schedule and preferences and automatically adjust the temperature to optimize energy usage.
Installing a smart thermostat is a relatively simple DIY project that can yield substantial savings. According to the Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% yearly on your heating and cooling bills by lowering your thermostat to 7-10°F for 8 hours daily. (ref)
Many energy providers offer rebates for smart thermostat installations, making this upgrade even more affordable.
5. Add Extra Insulation
Proper insulation is key to maintaining a warm home and reducing energy costs. Focus on insulating your attic, as up to 25% of your home’s heat can escape through the roof.
Check your attic’s current insulation levels and add more if needed. Rolled fiberglass insulation is an affordable option that you can install yourself. For an eco-friendly alternative, consider cellulose insulation made from recycled paper products.
Improving your attic insulation can lead to up to 50% energy savings on your heating bills.
6. Maintain Your Heating System
Regular maintenance of your heating system is crucial for efficiency and safety. A well-maintained furnace or boiler operates more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and preventing costly breakdowns.
Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up for your heating system before the cold weather hits. In between professional services, change your furnace filter regularly – typically every 1-3 months.
7. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Did you know your ceiling fans can help distribute heat more evenly throughout your home? By reversing the direction of your ceiling fans clockwise, you can push warm air down from the ceiling, making your rooms feel warmer.
This simple adjustment can allow you to lower your thermostat by a degree or two without sacrificing comfort. Switching the direction of your ceiling fans is usually as easy as flipping a switch on the fan’s housing.
Remember to run the fans at a low speed to avoid creating a cooling effect.
8. Draft-Proof Your Doors
Doors are common culprits for heat loss in homes. Gaps around doors can let in cold air and drive up your heating costs. Fortunately, there are several inexpensive ways to address this issue.
Start by installing door sweeps at the bottom of exterior doors to block drafts. Apply self-adhesive weatherstripping for gaps around the sides and top of the door. Don’t forget about your attic access door – adding weatherstripping here can prevent warm air from escaping into your attic.
These simple fixes can significantly reduce heat loss and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
9. Insulate Your Water Heater
Your water heater works harder in winter to heat cold water, which can lead to increased energy consumption. By insulating your water heater, you can reduce heat loss and save on your energy bills.
For electric water heaters, use a water heater blanket to wrap the tank. Be careful not to cover the thermostat or heating element access panels. Leave the top, bottom, thermostat, and burner compartments exposed for gas water heaters.
This simple DIY project can reduce heat loss by 25-45% and save you 7-16% annually on water heating costs: water heaters. (ref)
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.