We’ve all heard the basics — drip your faucets when it’s about to freeze and check for gaps in your doors. But you can do more to prepare your home for winter and save some money too, according to Jason Vail, director of operations at Mr. Handyman Tulsa.
“It’s your electric bill, your heating bill — when you have a bad weather stripping on your door, it can increase the amount of money you’re spending just to keep your home warm,” Vail said.
Weather stripping, caulking, opening cabinets and covering spigots are a few things that will help.
Weather stripping
These are the pads that slide under your doors and windows, sealing any gaps that let cold air into your house. You can find them for a relatively cheap price at most home improvement stores, depending on if you want foam, rubber, vinyl or metal.
A note from Mr. Handyman: Window stripping may be a bit more tedious and might require some extra help. If you’re in an older home, for example, those windows can be delicate and tricky.
“The knowledge on how those windows operate is becoming kind of like an ancient language that’s no longer spoken,” Vail said.
Caulking
This sealant works almost like weather stripping. It closes any gaps letting in cold air. But caulk is for fixed spots in your home, whereas weather stripping is for areas with movement like doors and windows.
Similarly, this can be found at most home improvement stores for around $10.
Opening cabinets
In addition to dripping those faucets when it nears freezing, you should also open your cabinets below the sink. It can prevent frozen pipes by allowing air to circulate.
Covering outdoor spigots
Your outdoor spigots are also susceptible to freezing temperatures. Styrofoam covers can help insulate the faucet and prevent pipes from bursting. Most stores sell them for less than $5.
If all this sounds overwhelming, you can hire help. Some businesses, including Mr. Handyman, offer maintenance programs to winterize homes.
It’s also worth checking into PSO’s Home Weatherization Assistance Program to save a little money. After an assessment, your home could qualify for free upgrades, including attic insulation or air and duct sealing.
Applicants should meet these requirements before applying:
- Be a homeowner or renter with a household income less than $65,000 a year.
- The home must be less than 2,200 square feet.
- Live in a home that is at least 10 years old.
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