As the Miami Valley experiences a cold snap, here are some simple steps that cost nothing, or next to nothing, that you can take to keep more money in your pocket this winter.
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Here are some ways you can stop that cold air from coming in, according to our news partners at WSOC.
Window insulation shrink kit:
Most hardware stores sell these kits for about $5. You can use a blow dryer to shrink-wrap it to your windows.
In an average-sized home, shrink-wrapped windows can save up to $20 per window every winter, according to Energy Star and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Caulk the gaps:
Take a tube of caulk directly to the gaps in your windows and draft doors, then smooth out the surface.
The U.S. Department of Energy says caulking can save up to 20% off your heating bill.
Clean your system, and don’t forget those filters:
According to a report by the EPA, just a tiny bit of dust in your system’s heating coils can reduce efficiency by 20%.
And don’t forget your furnace filters.
Changing your filters can save you 5%, or about $10 a month.
Let the sunshine in:
Finally, experts suggest letting Mother Nature heat things up.
You can find more tips on how to weatherize your home here.
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