Easy Weatherization for Your Home

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“I’m done with this cold weather!” That’s what I hear coworkers exclaim as they enter our office these frosty winter mornings. However sad it may be, the reality is that winter has only just begun.

We need fuzzy socks, cozy robes, chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Oh. . . and energy efficient houses wouldn’t hurt either!

Fahe’s Appalachia HEAT Squad®, with Housing Development Alliance (HDA) in Hazard stands ready to make this winter more bearable. Appalachia HEAT Squad® offers low cost energy audits, objective advice on how to improve efficiency, access to qualified contractors, and financing options to homeowners of all income levels. By utilizing this service, families can save money on utility bills, increase comfort, and extend the life of their homes.

Of course, there are also some simple steps we can take to decrease our utility bills and ready our homes for winter.

Caulking or Weather-stripping

Both products are easy to apply and can easily pay for themselves within a year. This will block unwanted air from creeping around window seals or under your door.

 

Window Seal Film

Window seal film is another useful product that can help with energy savings. The film works by reducing the heat transferred through your windows by creating a still air layer between the film and the window. This will only work properly if the film is .5 to 1 inch away from the window, so correct installation is important.

 

Pre-slit Water Pipe Insulation

Pipe insulation isn’t designed to lower energy costs but it can help to prevent water from freezing up and potentially bursting your pipes. If you have access to your plumbing outside of the environmentally controlled areas of your home it is well worth putting insulation over them before there is a problem. If a pipe bursts it could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs, so this act of prevention is definitely worth the time and relatively small cost.

 

Weatherization Assistance Programs

Most states have a weatherization assistance program for low income families.   Fahe has several Members who offer these services; many times those Members are Community Action Agencies. Check this page for our Membership Directory to help you search.  If you have any questions about weatherization services in your area, you can also email our Membership department for more information.

Tina Parker
Tina Parker
Tina Parker is a member of Fahe’s Communication Team. She lives and writes in Berea, Kentucky.

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