Crisp autumn air and the recent sweep of a winter storm through HRM have provided a bit more than a gentle nudge, reminding us that winter is around the corner. Having just turned our clocks back, we also need to turn our attention towards preparing our homes for the colder days ahead. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a brief list of steps that can help make your home warm and cozy, while also letting you pocket some savings on heating costs. Let’s delve right in!
Insulation Check-up:
Inspect your home’s insulation, especially in the attic. Efficient insulation keeps the warmth in and the cold out. Consider adding extra insulation where needed.
Seal the Drafts:
Search for drafts around windows, doors, and electrical outlets. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these gaps. Every little draft sealed is a step towards a warmer home!
Window Insulation Film:
Applying window insulation film can significantly reduce heat loss through your windows, and it’s an easy DIY project for a weekend.
Furnace Maintenance:
Schedule a maintenance check for your furnace to ensure it’s working efficiently. Replace the filter if necessary and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for better control over heating.
Reverse Ceiling Fans:
Reversing your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise helps to push the warm air down, maintaining a comfy room temperature.
Pipe Insulation:
Insulate exposed pipes to lessen the potential for freezing and burst pipes. Foam pipe insulation is easy to install and is an inexpensive and effective solution.
Clean Gutters:
Ensure your gutters are clean and free of debris to prevent ice dams which could lead to water damage.
Roof Inspection:
Conduct a quick visual inspection of your roof to have any missing or damaged shingles repaired to help prevent water leaks and further damage when snow and ice accumulate.
Fireplace Inspection:
If you have a fireplace, get it inspected and cleaned to ensure it’s safe and ready to warm up your living space. Close dampers when it’s not in use.
Stock Up on Essentials:
Make sure you have plenty of heating oil, salt or sand for the driveway, gas for the generator and any other winter essentials.
Clear Paths:
Check to ensure the path to your outside oil tank is free from obstructions, keep shovels nearby and fill up your snowblower and make sure it’s easily assessable and ready for action when needed.
At Scotia Fuels, we want to help you prepare your home for a snug and cost-efficient winter. Remember, a bit of preparation now can lead to a cozier, more economical winter season.
Not yet a Scotia Fuels customer? Please visit us at https://scotiafuels.com/contact-us/, or better still, call us at 902-453-2121. We’d love to talk to you.