CHICAGO, IL – December 13, 2012 – As the
temperature drops many people look for ways to save money heating their homes.
Consumers have many options that can help them prepare their homes and make
them more energy efficient. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern
Illinois (BBB) offers a checklist for homeowners to keep their bills low while
staying warm.
“Budgets
are tight for many and the strain can get worse during the winter,” said Steve J.
Bernas, president & CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois.
“By finding ways to keep the heating bill low, consumers can focus their time
and money in other areas.”
The following
is a BBB home winterizing checklist:
- Caulking and weather stripping. To prevent air leaks,
homeowners should inspect the caulking around windows and doors and check
for cracking and peeling. In addition, ensure that doors and windows shut
tightly and no cold air is coming in due to worn down weather stripping.
- Furnace. Furnaces older than 15 years might be due for a
replacement. For newer furnaces, make sure the filter is clean and the
thermostat is working properly.
- Heating ducts. Ducts should be cleaned once every two years.
Homeowners should also consider adding insulation to any exposed ductwork
in order to prevent losing heated air.
- Emergency kit. When a winter storm strikes, an emergency kit should
have all essential materials in one handy place. An emergency kit should
include flashlights, candles and matches, a first aid kit, bottled water,
non-perishable food and a battery-powered radio. Create the same emergency
kit for the car as well, including a couple blankets.
- Smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide
detectors and installing fresh batteries. Homeowners should consider replacing
smoke alarms older than 10 years.
- Gutters and ridge vents. Gutters should have been
cleaned to prevent any clogs that would cause rainwater to back up and
freeze, making the gutters expand and crack. The ridge vents need to be
cleaned as well in order to help prevent stagnate air.
- Windows. Window screens should be taken down and replaced
with storm windows; they provide an extra layer of protection and keep the
house warmer. Investing in a window
insulator kit is an inexpensive option to keep out drafts as well.
For more
advice you can trust and free referrals on home maintenance and saving money
this winter, visit BBB online at www.bbb.org
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As a
private, non-profit organization, the purpose of the Better Business Bureau is
to promote an ethical marketplace. BBBs help resolve buyer/seller complaints by
means of conciliation, mediation and arbitration. BBBs also review advertising
claims, online business practices and charitable organizations. BBBs develop
and issue reports on businesses and nonprofit organizations and encourage
people to check out a company or charity before making a purchase or donation.
