According to a study by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, residential energy consumption increases significantly during the winter months. As winter approaches, many homeowners find themselves wondering how to best prepare their homes for the chilly temperatures and increased energy use. Winterizing your home not only helps keep you warm but can also save you money on energy bills. Moreover, with products and services from ACS, the process of winterizing can be efficient, smart and safe.
Seal the Gaps
It’s essential to ensure there are no leaks or gaps in your home that could let cold air in. Common places to check include windows, doors and areas where wiring or plumbing enters your home. Simple measures like weatherstripping or caulking can be quite effective.
Tip: Pair this with ACS’s smart door and window sensors. While ensuring cold air stays out, make sure you’re notified if an unwanted intruder tries to get in.
Insulate Adequately
Check your home’s insulation, especially in the attic. A well-insulated house retains heat more efficiently. If you notice areas where the insulation is thin or missing, consider adding more.
Check Your Heating System
Before the cold hits in full force, have your heating system checked and serviced. Replace filters and ensure that your vents are not obstructed.
Tip: Did you know that with ACS’s smart thermostat, you can regulate your home’s temperature remotely? It’s energy-efficient and can adjust according to your preferences, ensuring your home is cozy when you arrive.
Guard Against Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes can burst and cause considerable damage. Insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas of your home. On particularly cold nights, allow your faucets to drip slightly to keep water moving.
Tip: Use ACS’s water detection sensors in areas prone to water damage. In the event of a leak, you’ll receive instant notifications, potentially saving thousands in repairs.
Clear Your Gutters
Ensure that your gutters are free of debris. This will prevent ice dams from forming, which can lead to leaks in your roof or walls.
Install or Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With the increased use of heating systems and the potential for chimney blockages, the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning increases in winter.
With ACS’s smoke and CO detectors, you can rest easy knowing that you’ll be alerted instantly if there’s a potential danger, whether you’re home or away.
Protect Your Home from the Outside
Make sure you trim any branches that might fall on your home during a snowstorm. Also, check the exterior of your house for any cracks or damage that might worsen in the cold.
Emergency Preparedness
Always have an emergency kit ready. It should include things like flashlights, batteries, blankets, non-perishable food and bottled water. You never know when a winter storm might leave you without power.
Enhance your home’s security during power outages with Alert 360’s backup battery system. Stay connected to your security system even when the grid fails.
Use Smart Lighting
The days are shorter during the winter, which means you might find yourself coming home to a dark house.
Incorporate ACS’s smart lighting solutions. Control your home’s lighting remotely or set schedules, using the ACS mobile app (available both in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store), ensuring you never have to walk into a dark home again.
Educate and Prepare Your Family
Ensure every family member knows what to do in case of an emergency, whether it’s a power outage, fire or any other winter-related incident. Remember to review your emergency plan together.
Winterizing your home is crucial for comfort, safety and energy efficiency. By integrating smart solutions from ACS, you not only prepare your home for the cold but also enhance its security and functionality. So, as you cozy up this winter, take solace in the fact that with a little preparation and the right tools, you and your family can stay warm and safe all season long.
And if you’re looking for more ways to keep yourself and your family safe, check out our home security and automation services at ACS Security. We offer a wide range of home security options to protect you and your family. If you’re ready to discuss our custom solutions, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you prepare for what’s next.