by Shawn Crowle
With Alberta’s winter just around the corner, getting your home ready for winter can be simple and budget friendly. A few small projects tackled over a weekend can make a big difference in making your home more energy-efficient. These upgrades can save you money on utilities this winter by reducing costs while keeping your space cozy.
Install Weather Stripping and Door Sweeps
One of the easiest and most effective ways to make your home more energy-efficient is to seal any drafts you find around windows and doors. Gaps around these areas can let cold air in and warm air out. Installing weatherstripping on window frames and adding door sweeps to exterior doors can help reduce drafts by as much as 15%. Not only will you feel warmer, but you’ll save on your heating bills this winter!
Weather stripping materials are affordable and readily available at any hardware store, making it a simple first step in getting your home ready for winter!
Insulate Outlets and Light Switches
One area of leakage we often overlook is our outlets and light switches, which can let in cold drafts – especially those on exterior walls. Adding foam gaskets behind outlet and switch covers is a super quick and affordable way to stop these drafts.
It’s a simple project, yet insulating these small areas can make a valuable difference in your home’s energy efficiency. By keeping the warmth in, you’ll make a more comfortable home while reducing your utility bills.
Seal Air Leaks in the Basement and Attic
Basements and attics are key areas to address when getting your home ready for winter, but these spaces are often overlooked. A large amount of warm air can escape these areas, making it essential to check them. Check around pipes, wiring, vents and chimneys for gaps, and use caulk or expanding foam insulation to check them.
This project doesn’t require much time or money, yet it can play a significant role in making your home more energy-efficient this winter!
Clean Your Dryer Vent…
Cleaning your dryer vent is a simple project that can make a huge difference in your home’s energy use. Over time, lint and debris build up in the vent, reducing your dryer’s efficiency and making it work harder – increasing its energy usage. A blocked vent also prevents proper airflow, which can lead to chilly drafts in your laundry area and even pose a fire hazard if left unchecked.
Tak an hour this weekend to disconnect your dryer, remove any lint from the vent, and check the outside vent for any blockages. You’ll notice quicker drying times, lower energy consumption, and a warmer, safer home.
…or Consider Installing an Airtight Dryer Vent
A poorly sealed dryer vent can let in cold air, making your laundry room feel chilly and adding to your heating bill. Upgrading to an airtight dryer vent will prevent these drafts,, keep your home warmer, and help save on your utility bills this winter.
Check the exterior of your current vent and consider replacing it with an airtight model for an easy solution this year.
Clean Out Your Gutters
Clogged gutters can cause major issues, from water overflow to foundation damage. By regularly cleaning your gutters, you’re helping direct water away from your home and preventing it from pooling around the foundation—an easy task that goes a long way in protecting your home. This quick bit of maintenance can save you from costly repairs and keep your home in top shape all year round.
By making your home more energy-efficient with these simple weekend projects, you’ll be prepared for Alberta’s winter without breaking the bank. Tackle these quick upgrades to enjoy a warmer home and a lighter utility bill this season!
