
2 minute read
Winter is Coming
WINTER IS COMING.
Submitted by Sean Welsh, Energy Resource Educator As the fall starts to settle in on the Sullivan County Catskills, my thoughts of preparing for the coldest months start to get more urgent. Looking back at the fuel and energy costs from last heating season, this year’s costs seem unpredictable. Both homeowners and renters can take some actions to try and save some on these costs proactively with some air sealing around the home, among other things. DIY actions are the first step that renters and home owners can take to save, with the rise in energy costs. Focusing on what gaps are forming around doors and windows is a great first step to identifying areas of concern. If there are gaps around windows or old caulking that looks to be dried up and not providing a seal to the edges are signs old caulking could be removed and replaced. For exterior doors, when closed can you see light to the outside on a sunny day? If so, check out what type of weather stripping products are available at your local hardware store. Gaskets around doors may need to be reinforced with weather stripping or new gaskets entirely. These actions will both lead to draft reductions and money saved on fuel. Renters can consider some DIY actions that consist of peel and seal type products that do not risk hurting painted or stained surfaces. Items such as rope caulk, and seal and peel caulking for around windows and doors can help seal up gaps and can be taken off without damaging finished surfaces. When looking for seal and peel products that will not damage finished surfaced make sure to read the label to identify the correct products.
Advertisement
• Caulk interior cracks especially around windows and doors. • Make sure windows are securely closed • Weather-strip or rope caulk drafty windows • Regularly service your heating system (yearly for oil, about every 2 years for natural gas).
Replace filters on warm air systems • Install and use a programmable thermostat (Check your local electric utility online store for discounts) • Install plastic sheeting on windows, exterior and interior products are on the market • Use door sweeps or
weather-stripping on drafty doors • Install gaskets and foam insulation on wall outlets and light plates, especially on exterior doors. (making sure the electric to these outlets has been turned off at the panel, • Close fireplace flue when not in use and/ or purchase a chimney balloon • Air Source and Ground
Source heating equipment filters should be cleaned, follow maintenance instructions found in equipment manuals
The second step both homeowners and renter can undertake is connecting with an energy contractor to obtain an energy audit. Energy contractors are able to give you an idea of areas to focus on, and structure a plan to add more insulation to areas of the home to ensure a better barrier to the outside air. To learn about the NYS energy programs and energy audit process you can reach out to Sean Welsh, Community Energy Advisor at sw288@cornell. edu or call 845-292-6180.