As we brace ourselves for the new year, we’re also preparing our Sturbridge homeowners for what the cold winter months have in store. From tricks to keeping warm without drastically increasing the energy bill to tips that’ll equip your house for those winter storms: we’ve got you covered with these winter maintenance tips for your Sturbridge home.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Reverse your bedrooms ceiling fans to save a little extra cash on your energy bills. The warm air generated by your thermostat will naturally rise. By switching the direction of the fan’s blades, the cold air will sink, forcing the heat to rise to the upper level of your home. This trick is perfect for warming up your home on those cold and windy days without exorbitantly increasing your bills.
Caulking Windows
Stop the cold air from leaking into your home this winter. Caulk is a flexible material used to seal air leaks through cracks, gaps, or joints less than a quarter-inch wide in your windows seals. Visit the US Energy Department’s website for thorough instructions on how to caulk your windows for winter. This trick is guaranteed to save you money, as even a small leak can affect the temperature of your entire home.
Let The Sun In During The Day
Some homeowners believe that leaving window drapes, blinds, or curtains open during the winter, allows cold air to seep through: but this isn’t always the case. Even on the coldest of days, leaving your windows drawn creates a heating effect that could keep your home warm enough during the daytime. This allows you to turn off the heat during the day and save a little extra cash in the process.
Change Your Bedding
Opt for heavier bedding to stay nice and toasty in your bedroom this season. Flannel is the best bedding material to keep your bedroom comfortable since it’s made from brushed cotton, giving it the “fluffy” effect. Another perk, flannel sheets are also better insulators due to air being trapped within the cotton!
Snow Storm Preparedness
Ready.gov, a national public service campaign, curated the perfect list of steps our residents can take to prepare for winter storms:
Know your area’s risk for winter storms. Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time.
Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping.
Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Do not forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.