Feel the chill in the air? Winter is here. And your home? A bit chilly. If you find yourself scrambling every year to keep the warmth in and the bills down, don’t let the fear of breaking the bank stop you from winterizing your home.
With a bit of elbow grease, some clever tricks and a dash of know-how you can turn your place into a warm haven without blowing your budget.
Energy Efficiency Schemes
If you’re on a tight budget, upgrading your home’s energy efficiency seems impossible. But there are schemes to help with the cost. One of those schemes is the free boiler on universal credit, which gives eligible households a new energy efficient boiler for free. Replacing an old boiler with an energy efficient one will save you loads on heating bills and keep your home warm in winter.
Beyond free boilers, the UK has other schemes to help households improve energy efficiency:
1. Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme
This government scheme requires large energy providers to fund energy saving measures such as insulation, heating upgrades or double glazing for low income and vulnerable households. Check with your energy provider to see if you qualify.
2. Winter Fuel Payment
This annual payment is given to people of State Pension age to help with heating costs in the winter. It’s credited to eligible individuals’ accounts automatically.
3. Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)
This grant is for off-gas grid homes, helping households with energy efficient measures such as wall and loft insulation or upgrading old heating systems to more sustainable alternatives.
These schemes will make your home more sustainable and more affordable, especially if you’re on benefits. Check them out and stay warm and save energy this winter.
Sealing Drafts and Leaks
Winterizing your home involves sealing drafts and leaks. You’ve got to stop that pesky chill from slipping in, right? Focus on the areas around doors, windows, walls, floors, and the attic and basement to increase your home’s comfort and efficiency.
Doors and Windows
Doors and windows are the biggest culprits for drafts. Check the seals around them carefully. If you find a draft, a quick replacement of weatherstripping will cover the gaps and stop the cold air from getting in. And it’s a cheap fix. Use self adhesive foam tape or door sweeps for a tighter seal.
For windows use plastic window insulation kits. These are easy to apply. They add a clear layer of insulation to stop cold air getting in. Caulking around window frames will also fill any visible gaps. These will improve comfort and save on heating bills.
Walls and Floors
Gaps in walls and floors can be energy sapping. Inspect these areas closely. You may find cracks or holes that need sealing. Expandable foam sealant is good for larger openings. It’s easy to apply and expands to fill the void.
For smaller cracks acrylic latex caulk may be a better option. It adheres well and stays flexible over time. In older homes cold air often gets in through electrical outlets. Use outlet gaskets to block these sneaky entry points.
Attic and Basement
Attics and basements can also add to the warmth. Heat rises and escapes through the attic. Make sure there’s adequate insulation around attic openings. You can seal leaks with spray foam or caulk around penetrations.
In the basement cold air gets in through foundation cracks. A concrete sealer will fill these gaps. Check windows or vents in these areas. Weatherstrip or caulk any visible gaps.
Both areas can also benefit from insulating wraps around plumbing. This prevents freezing and keeps pipes warmer. Improvements here will show on your heating bills.
Insulation Upgrades
Insulation is a key part of winterizing your home efficiently. By increasing insulation you can save on heating and be more comfortable. Knowing the different types of insulation and how to install them will get you the best of both.
Types of Insulation
There are various types of insulation for different needs and budgets. Fibre glass is a popular choice, cheap and effective. It’s sold in batts or rolls and is good for walls, attics and floors. Foam board is high insulation value and is good for basements and exterior walls.
Spray foam expands when applied and fills gaps well but may be more expensive upfront. Cellulose made from recycled paper is an eco-friendly option, often blown into attics and wall cavities. Consider your needs, location and budget when choosing insulation to get the best thermal performance.
Installation Tips
Proper installation is key to getting the most out of insulation. Focus on areas with drafts or temperature changes, like attics and basements. Seal gaps and cracks before installation to get better results. Measure twice to avoid waste.
For DIY projects wear protective gear especially with fibre glass. Don’t compress as packed insulation loses its effectiveness. Hiring professionals will cost more but will ensure it’s done right. They know where to look for areas that need attention so you get full coverage. Whether DIY or hiring, help follow local building codes for safety and efficiency.
Heating System Efficiency
Getting the most out of your heating system is key to saving and being comfortable in your home. Focus on furnace maintenance and smart thermostat management. These will make your system run smoothly and economically through the winter.
Furnace Maintenance
Furnace maintenance is key to efficiency and safety. Start by changing the filter monthly or as needed. A dirty filter will restrict airflow and make your system work harder than it should.
Schedule a professional inspection annually. This will reveal any issues like cracks in the heat exchanger or a faulty blower motor. Address these problems early to avoid costly repairs.
Check the pilot light to make sure it’s blue not yellow which means dirt. Keep vents and registers clean and clear to distribute heat evenly throughout your home.
Thermostat Management
Thermostat management can save you a lot of heat costs. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices allow you to set schedules and reduce heat when you don’t need it like when you’re asleep or away from home.
Lowering your thermostat by 1 degree can save you 3% on your heating bill. Use a setback at night or when the house is empty.
For extra efficiency use thermostat features like fan controls or zoning if available. These will help you optimize energy use while maintaining comfort in your home.
Conclusion
Winterizing your home doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Sealing drafts, upgrading insulation, improving heating efficiency and exploring assistance programs can make your home warm and energy efficient without breaking the bank. With these simple steps you’ll not only be cozy throughout the season but also save on your bills and make winter a little more enjoyable.
