Check out the new ‘ A Greener Woo’ in this issue of Worcester Magazine! The copied article is printed below.
Brett Sullivan
First and foremost, I will be blunt and to the point. I absolutely abhor the winter. Yup, I said it. Call the ACLU because when it comes to the cold weather, summertime is definitely getting the job position. (I don’t even want to see summer’s resume…winter, however, will be given a thorough background check.) But enough of my winter-ous slander…Let’s beat Old Man Winter once and for all.
Follow the tips below, and you’ll keep more money in your pocket over the upcoming months.
1. Get your furnace inspected
Call a HVAC certified technician to clean your furnace yearly. Change filters when necessary, switch out old thermostats for newer programmable models, and bleed the pipes if your house is heated by radiators. A clean furnace will burn full more efficiently and save you money.
2. Check your fireplace
Make sure your fireplace is capped properly to keep unwanted animals and debris from getting stuck or clogged in the chimney. A good cleaning will reduce the chance of a fire and will remove any creosote (a flammable substance derived from burnt wood).
3. Inspect exterior doors and windows
Seal all cracks and crevices. Replace older doors with newer, better insulated doors and replace windows that are old and outdated. If that’s not in your budget, seal cracks and openings with caulking and insulated tape.
4. Inspect roofs and gutters
Replace old or torn shingles and clean out gutters in order to prevent ice and water damage. Making sure your attic is properly insulated will also help reduce your heating bill.
5. Prevent plumbing freezes
Locate your water main shut off valve in case of an emergency. (This valve will stop any water flow to your residence.) Insulate exposed pipes and drain garden hoses to prevent water or ice damage. Always remember to keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees so your pipes won’t freeze.
Try these five quick tips to ensure your home (and bank account) are protected during the winter months. Preventative maintenance will save you money and the hassle of dealing with a crisis down the road. Spend a little now and save a lot in the long run.
Have a question for our in-house green expert? E-mail him at BSullivan@TrashWizard.com.
