The summer is the perfect time to start preparing your home for the cold winter months ahead. As the saying goes, failing to plan is planning to fail! So, while the weather is still mild, do some smart planning and eco upgrades to your heater. That way, you can ensure your home retains heat efficiently this winter so you can stay cozy without racking up huge heating bills. A little forethought during the summer will pay off all winter long with a warmer, more energy efficient home.
Boost Your Home's Insulation
One of the best ways to improve your home's energy efficiency is by adding insulation. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Attic Insulation
Start by insulating the attic, where heat loss can be significant. Aim for at least R-38 insulation in the attic. Consult with insulation professionals to determine if blown-in, batt, or foam insulation is best for your home.
Exterior Wall Insulation
Check exterior walls for insulation gaps and fill them in. Seal air leaks around windows and doors by caulking and weather-stripping. This prevents drafts that steal heat. Install storm windows for added insulation.
Utilize Strategic Landscaping
Strategically placed trees, shrubs, and other landscaping around your home can act as a windbreak and provide extra insulation.
Evergreens as Wind Blockers
Plant evergreens along the north and west sides of your home to block cold winter winds.
Harness the Power of the Sun
During the winter, take advantage of solar heat from the sun by opening curtains and blinds on south-facing windows during the day. Close them at night to retain heat. Plant deciduous trees on the south side to provide shade in summer but allow sunlight in winter. These trees will be your AC during the summer and your shield against the freezing wind in winter!
Invest in an Eco-Friendly Heater
There are several efficient heating options to consider:
Heat pumps are energy efficient and use electricity to extract heat from the air or ground.
Wood pellet stoves burn renewable wood pellets and emit less pollution than wood stoves.
Solar heaters harness the sun's radiation to heat water and spaces.
Electric infrared heaters work by safely warming surfaces like floors and walls instead of just the air, using less energy to reach the same level of coziness.
With some smart preparation and upgrades, you can make your home energy efficient and ready for winter. Stay cozy all year round while reducing your carbon footprint and saving on heating costs.
What tips do you use to get your home winter-ready in an eco-friendly way? Find more sustainable living tips and discover thousands of sustainable shops in your local area on Ganddee!
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