One important step in winterizing your home is to be sure that you’re keeping warm air in and cold air out. One good way to do this is by making sure your insulation is in good shape and is sufficient. This is something you may be able to do yourself. If not, a handyman should be able to help you out at a reasonable rate.
If you turn on the furnace and find that you’re getting no heat or very little heat in one area, it may be a problem with your duct work. This is something you need to have checked out right away, as it may mean that heat is simply blowing outside through an opening in the ductwork.
Next, check for openings around door frames, windows, and areas where pipes and such enter the home to make sure cold air isn’t coming in. Some weather stripping or a little caulk can go a long way toward helping keep heat inside. You can usually pick up a tube of caulk for just a few dollars. Even with a caulking gun, it will probably run you just over ten bucks, and it will be worth every penny.
Some people use plastic sheeting kits to cover up windows. This may help reduce drafts but it isn’t very attractive and it can be cumbersome. You may be better off adding a layer of clear film to windows, caulking cracks, and simply hanging up a heavier curtain. If your drapes or curtains are unlined, consider adding a lining or simply add another rod and slip another curtain (or even a blanket) behind the drapes you want seen.
For cracks beneath the door that allow drafts to come in, you can use something as simple as a rolled up towel to block those drafts. Remember, the idea is not to make the home airtight. Airflow is important, so you’re not trying to cut it off, you’re merely trying to keep out gusts of cold air, and keep warm air from escaping in large amounts.
Home Safety: Stay Safe While Staying Warm