Six Green Design Tips
for Winterizing Your Home
There are many practical aspects of green design that can lead to better insulated, more comfortable homes during the winter months. Here are some top ways to conserve energy and save money!
Invest in a programmable thermostat. One of our favorite ways to save energy is to update old thermostats with a smart panel that allows you to program the temperature of your home, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. You will be surprised by how easy they are to install and how easy they are to use.
Find and repair any and all air leaks. This is likely the biggest way to conserve energy in your home. Studies have found the average home likely has holes and failed caulking that can sometimes be the equivalent of having a window open all winter. Check for drafts near windows and doors. Diligence pays off!
Seal recessed ceiling lights, outlets, and vents. This tip is along the same lines as fixing air leaks. You never know how insulated these things are until you take one or two out and inspect them. Remember, when you inspect your recessed ceiling cans, take the opportunity to update your bulbs to an energy efficient kind if you haven’t done so already!
Get a pro to checkout your heating system. Another great way to make sure your home is running as efficiently as possible is to take care of the mechanical systems. It is best to get this done every year or every other year.
Change your air filters. Don’t let dust and dirt collect in the filters that are meant to protect the air in your home. Ideally, you should be changing the air filters for your home four times a year. We recommend changing them every season, as you are least likely to forget!
Insulate your water heater and turn down the temp. Insulating your water heater is easy and will decrease energy waste substantially! Equally important and helpful is setting the water temp to 120° fahrenheit. Any hotter is a waste! —By Kate Gray Fudim
Editor’s Note: Kate Gray Fudim is an interior designer with Beth Haley Design. Kate has a master’s degree in Interior Architecture and Design with an emphasis in sustainable design. Beth Haley Design, an urban interior design firm, focuses on remodeling and revitalizing established homes, as well as creating stimulating, functional, sustainable spaces in new homes.. E-mail your questions to her at ngregg@ngregg.com or visit www.bethhaleydesign.com.