Fall is a great time to think about home maintenance projects that can help you stay comfortable, increase your energy efficiency, and reduce your heating costs. Consider these ideas!

Schedule a Heating Inspection and Replace Air Filters

Making sure your heating system is problem free and running efficiently is a great place to start. Bring in a professional service technician to inspect your system before the weather gets cold. Don’t forget to change your air filters regularly. A new air filter can reduce your energy bills and extend the life of your system.

Check for Drafts Around Windows and Doors

Old caulk, weatherstripping, and insulation around windows and doors can be a significant source of drafts and higher energy bills. Repair or replace these before the cold weather comes.

Install Attic Insulation

Your home can lose a lot of heat through the attic, and these spaces are often unfinished, which makes insulation easier to install. While you’re at it, seal any leaks around vents, pipes, and other openings.

Consider a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat helps you heat your house efficiently when you’re at home and save money when you’re away. It also lets you automatically turn down the temperature during certain times, like at night when you are asleep.

Don’t Forget Your Water Heater

Keeping your hot water at the right temperature can be a big part of your energy bill. Regular maintenance, like flushing your tank and wrapping your water heater in insulation, might help you save money.

Get an Energy Audit

Many energy companies will come to your home and perform an energy audit that identifies problems in your home that are costing you money. They can create an improvement plan to fix them.

Replace Old Windows, Doors, and Heating Systems

Home upgrades like new windows, doors, and heating systems aren’t cheap, but they can make sense—especially if they’ve gotten old. Professional home and heating contractors can also help you find programs and rebates that might help you lower the costs of these projects.

Don’t Forget the Simple Stuff

Not every energy saving idea requires a trip to the local home improvement store or an estimate from a professional. There are easy ones, too.

• Turn down your thermostat. Lowering the temperature by a few degrees can help you save money on heating. Turning down the temperature more at night when you’re sleeping or while you’re away are also ways to reduce your costs.
• Put on warm clothing. Feel snug and look stylish by putting on a warm sweater and other toasty clothing, rather than turning up the heat.
• Use ceiling fans to push down warm air. Warm air rises. Using fans to distribute heat more evenly in a room can help you stay comfortable without increasing the heat.
• Open blinds during the day, and close them at night. Letting in the sun can help warm up your home throughout the day. Closing your blinds at night can help keep more heat in your home.
• Close off unoccupied rooms. If you have spare rooms, guest rooms, sun porches, or other spaces you don’t use during the winter, seal them off and save on heating costs.

If you're thinking about purchasing a new home this season, or if you're considering refinancing to better fit your financial goals, we're here to help. Whether you're planning your next move or simply have questions about your home financing options, contact us today for a complimentary prequalification. Our team is ready to help you make informed decisions and prepare for whatever comes next. Get started online.