Preparing Your Home for Freezing Temperatures
As freezing temperatures approach, homeowners in New York are gearing up for potential increases in energy bills. Here are some tips to prepare your home for winter.
Sealing the Home
- Inspect Doors and Windows: Check for cracks that could lead to energy loss. Seal any gaps and replace dried or cracked window putty.
- Older Windows: Consider using plastic insulation shrink kits for drafty windows.
- Protect Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes and disconnect exterior hoses to prevent bursts.
Furnace and Appliance Checks
- Annual Inspection: Schedule a furnace inspection and check air filters regularly, replacing them every one to three months.
- Using Space Heaters: Be cautious with space heaters as they can consume a lot of energy. Limit their use where possible.
Thermostat Settings
- Optimal Settings: NYSEG recommends keeping thermostats between 65°F and 70°F while home, and lowering to 58°F when away or sleeping. This adjustment can reduce heating costs by up to 15%.
Power Outage Preparation
- Storm Preparedness: Keep phones charged and flashlights readily available for power outages. NYSEG offers free outage alerts to track restoration times.
Financial Assistance
- HEAP Program: Applications open on November 2 for the federally funded Home Energy Assistance Program, which may provide automatic monthly credits through the Energy Affordability Program.
- Power Rebate Checks: New York will send one-time power rebate checks of up to $200 by December.
By taking these steps now, homeowners can safeguard against higher energy costs and prepare for the cold winter months.
