In Philadelphia, each new season brings its own set of challenges. During the winter months, one primary goal is keeping your home insulated and warm. Here’s a quick how-to guide to help you take care of some common cold weather chores every Philadelphia homeowner might face.
Draft-Proof Doors
If you notice cold air seeping through the gaps around your doors, consider replacing the weather-stripping seal. Self-stick weather-stripping tape is sold in different thicknesses, so it’s a good idea to measure the gap between the door and the frame before shopping. To apply, simply unroll the tape and peel off the sticker before pressing into place. If you’d prefer not to use the sticky-tape vinyl weather strip, you can purchase a felt version that you nail in place. Still feeling cool air? Try making a draft snake using an old pair of jeans or other recycled materials.
DIY Log Carriers
For homes with wood-burning hearths, a log carrier is the best way to transport firewood in and out of the house. To limit your trips back and forth to the wood pile and to protect your floor from dirt and debris, one quick solution is to make your own log carrier out of fabric or canvas. You can recycle old materials or sew your own carrier using heavyweight fabric and wooden dowels, as shown in this DIY Network how-to guide.
HVAC Filters
The all-too-brief lull between air conditioning and heating season is a great time to have your heater cleaned and serviced. During the Philadelphia winter months, you’ll also want to periodically change your HVAC filter to guarantee your heater is operating most efficiently. Disposable HVAC filters are inexpensive and sold in most home improvement or hardware stores. You may also opt for a reusable filter. The reusable varieties are more expensive but can be rinsed off and dried before they are returned to the heating unit. Check your HVAC filter monthly and aim to replace it every two to three months, or more frequently if needed. When you do need to change the filter, make sure your heater is off. If your heater doesn’t restart after changing the filter, check for correct placement or call your HVAC service technician for further instruction.
Many simple insulating techniques earn homeowners significant savings and added warmth in the coldest months. If you’re a crafty and creative person, there’s no limit to the number of ingenious ideas you can come up with to fight winter drafts and increase efficiency in your home.
Image Source: Flickr/Kevin Burkett
[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[/cf]
