Is your Schaumburg home ready for winter? Illinois weather is unpredictable, but you can count on subzero temps, brutal wind chills and at least a few feisty blizzards. Seasoned Illinois homeowners know that the best way to enjoy indoor comfort during a polar vortex is to hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Here are 3 ways to improve your comfort and be more energy efficient.
Keep Your Furnace Filter Clean
Of all the DIY things you can do to prep your home for winter, keeping your furnace filter clean is number one on the list. Most filters need replacement every month, but this can vary. To be safe, and especially if you have pets, check your filter every month. If it looks dirty, get a new one. A clean filter will maximize furnace efficiency, optimize furnace performance and keep energy bills manageable.
Install Insulation
According to ENERGY STAR, most homes in the U.S. have too little insulation. Besides keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, it reduces noise from outside and can improve indoor air quality by keeping dust, pollen and other allergens out of your home. Insulation helps to control indoor humidity levels, thereby protecting your home from mold and mildew. Installation is not necessarily difficult, and many Schaumburg homeowners prefer to save money with a DIY installation.
Weatherize Your Home
Weatherization increases indoor comfort and helps with energy efficiency. Traditional weatherization techniques like sealing holes and installing weather-stripping can make a big difference in your energy costs. Modern weatherization methods include technologies that promote energy efficiency like programmable thermostats.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to winterize your home is with annual fall furnace maintenance. To learn more about keeping your Schaumburg home toasty this winter or to on a save money on a furnace tune up, visit Ray’s HVAC or call 847-637-5287.
