How To Winterize Your Home to Save Money and Energy!

New Year, New Me! As everyone kicks off 2025 with grand ideas for their New Year’s resolutions, I thought it would be a great time to highlight some simple steps prudent homeowners can take to prevent cold-weather-related claims and save money in this unpredictable economy. While it might not be as glamorous as achieving a six-pack, preventing an insurance claim can be pretty rewarding…just hear me out! Below are key tips from a checklist created by one of our carriers, demonstrating how winterizing your home can lower energy bills, prevent costly repairs, and reduce the risk of accidents, like home heating fires:

1. Thermostat Lowering your home’s temperature by just one degree in winter can save up to 1% on your energy bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Setting your thermostat to at least 55°F can help prevent frozen pipes, while upgrading to a smart thermostat can further reduce heating costs. These devices adjust automatically based on your schedule, ensuring that you're not wasting energy when you're not home.

2. Furnace Before cranking up the heat, change or clean your furnace filter and have an HVAC professional inspect your furnace annually. If you can’t remember the last time your heating ducts were checked, now’s the time to schedule an inspection. A pro can assess your ducts for leaks and improve efficiency—plus, it’s an important safety measure to prevent any potential hazards.

3. Roof and Gutters Clogged gutters can lead to serious issues like foundation damage or insect infestations, so take time to clear debris from gutters and downspouts. Use a sturdy ladder and safety gear to do this safely. Before winter arrives, inspect your roof for damaged shingles, cracked caulk, or moss—these can lead to snow or ice damage, potentially causing costly repairs and insurance claims if left unchecked.

4. Alternative Heat Sources Space heaters are cozy, but they account for an estimated 44% of house fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Always follow safety guidelines when using any heating source—whether it's a space heater, fireplace, or other equipment—to help prevent accidents.

5. Fireplace Before using your fireplace, clean out soot and ashes, and inspect it for cracks that could pose a fire hazard. If you’re not using it, install a chimney balloon to block the opening—just remember to remove it before the next season. Know which repairs require a certified chimney sweep to ensure safety.

6. Trees Trim branches near electric wires before winter to prevent damage from heavy snow or strong winds. If a tree does fall during bad weather, make sure you know the steps to take for handling any resulting damage. Not only can this prevent property damage, but it can also help avoid insurance claims due to fallen trees.

7. Windows and Doors Prevent drafts and reduce heating bills by replacing worn weather stripping and caulking cracks around windows and doors. For any loose doors, use a draft guard or a rolled-up towel to fill the gap and keep your home warmer, longer.

Ready to winterize your home and save on energy costs? While you're at it, take a moment to review your homeowner's insurance policy to ensure you're covered in case of unexpected winter events. Reach out today to discuss how we can help protect your home and savings this season!"