As the cool autumn days are replaced by colder nights, is your home prepared for the seasonal change in Florida? Warm up your home this winter while saving two types of green—your money and the environment—with these four tips.
SEAL ALL DRAFTS
You won’t regret investing in cost-effective insulation. Block small gaps and cracks with rope caulk or spray foam to prevent drafts, and close up the flue damper whenever you’re not cozying up to a roaring fireplace. Don’t forget to also create a tight seal around all vulnerable doors and windows with self-adhesive backing. Keeping the heat sealed in your home prevents additional adjustments to the thermostat, saving you an average of $200 in heating costs a year.
CONSIDER YOUR WATER
Even juggernauts like water heaters need to keep warm. Energy loss through the heater’s walls can rapidly add up, so throw an insulating jacket over it. If you don’t need scalding hot showers, change the water temperature to a setting of 120°F during weekdays to keep your bills and energy waste down this season.
DO TOUCH THAT DIAL
Outdated thermostats don’t posses the advanced customization of today’s models. Install a smart thermostat, and with the tap of a few buttons, you can program it to turn off while you’re not home. WiFi-enabled thermostats even allow you to schedule times to increase the heat with a few swipes. Thoughtful adjustments like this can help save around 12% on your energy bill each month.
BASK IN THE SUN
Colder temperatures may make you shiver, but that doesn’t stop the sun from shining. Adhere reflective window film to bounce the heat from the sun’s rays back into your home, reducing the need to turn up the thermostat. Need an extra cover to keep your family warm? Pick up some cellular shades to insulate windows from the brisk cold.
For all the latest real estate news and home tips across the Tampa Bay area, please call us CENTURY 21 Alliance Realty at 352.686.0000.
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