As temperatures dip below freezing and cold air starts creeping into Allen County and Iola homes, Kansas State University Research and Extension agent Kathy McEwan says taking a few easy steps toward winterizing homes can go a long way in reducing utility bills.
About 45 percent of home utility costs come from heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The potential for savings is huge, and fairly easy, McEwan said.
“It’s just pretty basic stuff if people pay attention,” she said.
A few tips for winterizing homes:
Locating and fixing air leaks — The average house can lose as much as 30 percent of its heat through air leaks, primarily around windows and doors. According to House-Logic.com, using a lit incense stick is the best way to locate leaks. If the smoke plumes horizontal, a draft is present. Aside from upgrading doors and windows, cheap solutions are available. Heat-shrink plastic and thermal blinds are available in kits at hardware and retail stores. Doorjambs can also be purchased to help seal doors.
Maintain furnaces — Hiring a professional to check heaters is encouraged. Because most furnaces haven’t been run in months, people should make sure the system is running efficiently and safely. Gas and oil furnaces can create extremely dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Check, clean, and, if necessary, replace air filters.
Check duct work — Make sure ducts are properly insulated. Poorly insulated ducts allow heat to dissipate before it’s exhausted throughout the home. Again, this task is best left to professionals.
Clean gutters — Gutters might be full now that the leaves have dropped. Clearing gutters can prevent costly repairs later down the line. Built up leaves can create ice dams that often lead to water damage.
Questions about winterizing homes should be directed to the Allen County K-State Research and Extension office at 365-2242.
Winterizing homes brings big savings
