Don’t Let Cold Temperatures Kill the Mood!
Picture this: it’s Valentine’s Day. Dinner’s in the oven. Two flutes of champagne sit untouched on the kitchen counter. The bed is carpeted in rose petals. There’s only one problem: it’s freezing indoors. What’s a lovebird to do?
There are endless ways that a homeowner can weatherproof their home for the winter months. Some considerations include the following:
Checking for Drafts
Drafts are one of the leading causes of heat loss. A draft is generally when poor insulation lets warm air out and cold air in. This isn’t ideal for a couple cozying in front of the fireplace. Some remedies to a draft include:
- Weatherstripping the windows. Over time, a window’s seal may break down, letting cold air in. Weatherstripping is when a homeowner uses an insulating material to prevent this from happening. They may use rubber, foam, or other insulation to get the job done.
- Replacing rotted drywall. Many homeowners never even see their home’s drywall. Yet, over time, these materials can break down and affect the home’s ability to stay warm.
- Installing a door sweep. Sometimes, cold air uses the front door to get inside the house. It comes in through the gap between the bottom of the door and the floor. A door sweep prevents this from happening, and they’re fairly easy to install.
Installing New Windows
Windows are designed to keep out cold air. They do this by relying on their panes, including several layers of glass stacked on top of themselves. When installing windows, one should consider getting EnergyStar-certified windows. These are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) because they reduce how hard the heater needs to work to keep the house warm.
But what makes Energy Star-certified windows better than others on today’s market? Well:
- They’re made with the finest materials, designed to withstand tough weather conditions
- The windows’ glass reflects sunlight, regulating a home’s temperature
- EnergyStar window panes fit perfectly in their frames, reducing drafts
Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, many homeowners can afford to install and purchase new windows. This legislation offers tax credits. One’s eligibility depends on their state and how much money their household makes. The program is designed for low-income and middle-income families, but higher-earning households qualify, too.
Consulting a Trained Heating Contractor
Hiring a trained HVAC technician is the gift that keeps on giving. When a professional assesses a home’s indoor air quality, they first make sure that:
- The air filter doesn’t need to be replaced
- The HVAC system isn’t more than 15 years old
- The household isn’t wasting energy
- The windows don’t need to be replaced
- Cracks in the home’s baseboards don’t let cold air in
- The heater is working properly
After their inspection, a professional may explain whether better insulation could benefit the home. They can also recommend making certain repairs that could meet homeowners’ needs.
About Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc.
Valentine’s Day is all about warm, fuzzy feelings. It’s not about suffering through the cold winter. That’s where Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. professionals come in. These professionals serve Colonial Heights, VA, and the surrounding areas, offering same-day service at honest rates. For more information on their HVAC services, one can call now.
