Crisp mornings and vivid blue sky's signal the change of seasons here in western north Carolina. While we are enjoying the mild temperatures now, remember winter is just around the corner, bringing with her the possibility of high heating bills and repair costs. Here are a few steps to help you potentially save hundreds of dollars.
- Change the air filter in your heating system. A fresh filter will make your system run more efficiently and will keep your home's air cleaner. Have your heating system inspected by a professional. This will help insure you will not be without heat during the cold winter months. Lack of heat is not only uncomfortable, but can lead to frozen water pipes witch can cause serious damage to your home.
- Look for gaps and cracks around the exterior of your doors and windows where heat can escape. Fill gaps with a good exterior grade caulking.
- Have your chimney inspected and cleaned. If plan on using a fireplace or wood stove for heat you should have a battery operated smoke and carbon monoxide detector near the area to be heated. Test detector monthly.
- Weather strip and insulate the attic access or staircase. There are products available at home improvement stores for this task which could cut down on heat loss significantly.
- Add attic insulation and caulk recessed can lights, ceiling fans and light fixture boxes to drywall from the attic. You will be surprised how much heat is lost in those small spaces.
