In Northwest Indiana, cooler weather is heading our way, and before we know it, winter will be here! As we turn up the heat and spend more time indoors, energy use and costs can increase. Now is a good time to think about ways to save a little extra, protect your home from the weather, and keep it comfortable this season. 

Take a look at a few preventative steps and tips for manufactured homes:

Inspect Your Heating System

Your heating system works longer and harder during colder months, which strains its components. Before temperatures drop, ensure your heating system works properly. Scheduling a professional inspection can help determine whether it meets safety and quality standards. In between, change the filter regularly and clear clutter around the system. A well-running system uses less energy, reduces bills, and is less likely to fail on freezing nights.

Weatherstripping

Have you felt drafts of cool air in your home? Take a few minutes to check around windows and doors for noticeable breezes. Using weatherstripping to seal gaps is a simple, effective way to reduce energy loss and keep heat inside. Weatherstripping comes in several forms, including V-strips, door sweeps, foam tape, window film, and caulk

Insulation

Proper insulation keeps warmer air in, making it easier to keep a comfortable temperature and reducing how hard your heating system has to work. If you notice particularly cold areas in your home, have them checked to see whether insulation or repairs are needed. 

Weatherstripping and insulation improvements can make quite a difference. The EPA estimates that homeowners can save around 15% on heating costs by air sealing and insulation. 

Inspect Skirting 

Your home’s skirting protects the area underneath from cold air. Inspect your skirting for loose panels, gaps, or damage, and repair it before the snow comes. If your skirting has seasonal vents, partially closing them can reduce exposure to cold air. This can lower energy bills and protect pipes from freezing. Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations, and reopen the vents in the spring so the space under your home can ventilate.

Protect Pipes

Frozen pipes aren’t on anyone’s wish list! Manufactured homes have underfloor plumbing that sits closer to the ground than traditional site-built homes. When temperatures drop, exposed pipes risk freezing, leading to costly repairs.

To protect your pipes from freezing and lower water-heating bills, you can install heat tape and pipe insulation. If you install heat tape yourself, follow the instructions so it doesn’t become a fire risk. 

Set Your Thermostat

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit when you are home and awake. Lowering the temperature by 7-10 degrees for about eight hours a day, such as while asleep or away, can save up to 10% per year. Of course, keeping your home at a safe and comfortable temperature should always come first. But sometimes reaching for a cozy sweatshirt or blanket is easier on your system than turning up the heat. 

Energy Star-certified smart thermostats can be a great investment for saving you money in the long run. Unlike a traditional thermostat, these can be controlled remotely and automatically adjust settings based on your schedule and preferences. On average, they save homeowners 8% or more on heating and cooling costs.

Run Your Ceiling Fans

Did you know that the direction your ceiling fan spins can make a difference? In the winter, set your fan to spin clockwise at a low speed. This creates an updraft to push trapped warm air near the ceiling throughout the room. 

Depending on your ceiling fan, you can find a switch at the base of the fan or a setting on a remote control. Keep the speed low so it doesn’t create a cool breeze. It may seem small, but it can make a difference in how often your heating system runs. 

Everyday Habits

Saving energy can also come down to the small things we do every day. A few day-to-day adjustments can help reduce energy use. 

  • Turn off lights when leaving a room
  • Wash full loads of laundry in cold water when you can
  • Unplug electronics when not in use
  • Open blinds during the day to let in the warmth from natural lighting 
  • Keep furniture and rugs from blocking vents

Save Now

Cold weather is quickly approaching, and now is a great time to prepare your home and save. Simple tips such as weatherstripping, protecting pipes, and inspecting heating systems can reduce your energy use and prevent costly repairs.

Finding ways to save energy and lower expenses is important to many homeowners. Stick around this season to save on energy!

 

Looking for comfort and energy efficiency in a home? Learn more about manufactured living and explore New Durham Estates here.