Winter is approaching and there’s a bit of a chill in the air. Now is the perfect time to weatherize your home. While this may seem a daunting task to some, there are quite a few simple and inexpensive things you can do that will save you even more money this winter. Most families in California will see a raise in the thermostat in the coming weeks to combat dropping temperatures. To make sure your heater is working as efficiently as possible, have the repairman out to give it a tune up. You can also prepare your home in as many ways as possible with small do it yourself projects.

Lloyd Throne, Director of the California Department of Community Services and Development, says “Weatherization reduces average annual energy costs per household by about $358 during the first year. For every $1 invested in weatherization, $1.53 is returned in energy related benefits”. That’s pretty significant, especially if it leaves you feeling more comfortable this winter.

Some suggested weatherization ideas are:

• Weather-strip and caulk around doors and windows making sure to seal holes  and cracks. A 1/16 inch gap around your front door lets the same amount of air in as a hole in the wall the size of your fist.
• Use an approved water heater blanket to keep heated water warm.
• Contact SMUD to see if you qualify for the Energy Assistance Program Rate, which offers a discount on the monthly customer charge as well as portions of the total electric bill.
• Set your thermostat to the lowest possible comfortable setting. Each degree lower could save you up to 3% of you heating costs.
• Remove window air conditioners if you have them. Or install an air conditioner cover to eliminate drafts.
• Replace furnace filters once a month. Dirty filters make the furnace work harder and use more energy.
• Make sure your fireplace damper is closed when not in use.

Little things go a long way when it comes to weatherizing your home. For more information or for help in getting the necessary items to weatherize your home, stop by your local hardware store. Sales assistants at the store will also be able to customize your weatherization needs- just ask.