Keep Cozy Tips from Your Insulation Contractor

Looking for the classic win-win situation this winter? Look no further, your insulation contractor. has ideas for you. Warming up your house not only will it keep you more comfortable, but it will also save you money. And not to mention, the reduction of energy needs from the environment will have you sleeping better every night. And the best news? A lot of insulation tricks can be done at home, with only little effort and small investments. And here for you today, to get you started on a warmer winter, are some things to know about home insulation, and nine do it yourself tricks for you to take home with you:

9 Ways to Make Your Home Cozy this Winter

Tip 1. Replace the Screen in Your Storm Door

When fall rolls around it may be time to consider replacing the screen in your storm door with a solid glass pane. Even though you will most likely have your main door closed all winter, the extra layer of protection on the storm door will be a tremendous help preventing drafts and keeping out the cold.

Tip 2. Seal Drafty Doorways

Use rubber weatherstripping to fill spaces between the sides and bottom of your door and the door frame. If the space between the bottom of the door and your floor is extra large, you can use a double draft stopper. This is primarily two cylindrical pieces of foam that slide on to the front and back of your door to prevent drafts from seeping in under the door itself. It is very effective at preventing cold air from coming into your home in the winter, and can easily be slid on and off for convenience. 

Tip 3. Add Insulation to Drafty Windows

If you've got drafty windows, you can place shrink-wrap film over the window opening to reduce the energy loss. Here's how: Locate the draft by using a lighter and a hair dryer. Have a partner stand outside and blow a hair dryer toward the window. Light a butane lighter, and move the flame around the corners of the window. If the flame begins to flicker, you've got a draft. Begin shrink-wrap installation by applying double-stick tape all the way around the window. Peel off the backing to expose the adhesive. Attach the film to the tape, stretching it all around the window opening. Be sure the film sticks firmly to the tape; otherwise it might pull loose when you begin heating it. Use a hair dryer to heat the film. Keep the hair dryer moving so you don't overheat any particular area. As the film gets warmer, it will tighten up until the wrinkles disappear. Trim any excess film with a utility knife.

Tip 4. Insulate Your Electrical Outlets

Another way to minimize drafts is by insulating the electrical outlets and switches on the outside walls. Turn off the power to the outlets at the circuit-breaker box, and remove the outlet covers. Insert a foam insulating plate ,and replace the cover. 
Another source of drafts is the gap between the window molding and the siding on the house. Use silicone caulk (clear or paintable) to seal the gap.

Tip 5. Get a Programmable Thermostat


According to the Consumer Energy Center for California, every degree you lower your average thermostat reading, you’ll save up to 5% on energy costs. If you are like most households, there are times in the day where nobody is home. There is no need to keep the couch warm for your arrival, cut back on the heat in the times of the day where you don’t need it, and save some money this winter.

Tip 6. Insulate Your Water Heater

By essentially putting a "jacket" on your water heater; you can keep your water warmer during the cold months without having to use excess energy to heat it. All you have to do is buy a fiberglass jacket from a home improvement store and wrap it around your water heater like a blanket. Adding this extra layer of insulation will reduce heat loss drastically, and you will recoup the money you spend in just a few months with all the money you will be saving! 

Tip 7. Keep Up to Date with HVAC Maintenance

It is essential for the efficiency of your HVAC system that you keep up with regular maintenance. This includes changing your air filters on time with a quality filter, cleaning your ducts regularly and repairing any leaks in your ducts that is causing valuable heat to escape into undesirable places. All of these things will not only keep your HVAC Unit running at an optimum level, but it will also improve air quality and help with potential allergies.  You can also make sure that no furniture is blocking the vents so that the heat can be dispensed and equally regulated throughout the house. 

Tip 8. Install Thick Curtains During Winter Months

Certain are pretty, light, flowy, and perfect for summer, but winter requires something a little different. If your home has very drafty windows, it would be smart to invest in some long, thick, and heavy curtains. Hanging these thicker curtains will help dramatically when it comes to keeping the cold out and the heat in. If your windows are particularly drafty, use curtains that have a thermal back for an extra layer of protection against the cold breeze.

Tip 9. Cover Your Fireplace


Unfortunately that aesthetic fireplace in the corner is outdated technology. Typically all fireplaces in older households don’t do a great job keeping your house warm. A lot of cold air enters through the chimney, and if you don’t use your fireplace often, always make sure the flu is closed. Consider placing a decorative slate over the entrance. If you do use the fireplace, which is a nice winter time pleasure, invest in a glass window that can conduct the heat better, or an air transfer blow-back system to circulate heat around the room. \

Sacramento Insulation Contractors

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