Simple ways to weather-proof your home and prevent heat loss

Wintertime energy bills can be steep, especially if your home is losing heat through gaps in inefficient windows and doors. The following tips can help you prevent heat loss and save money.

According to the Siding and Window Dealers Association of Canada, about 25 per cent of the money homeowners spend on energy to heat their homes can be attributed to heat loss through standard double-pane windows. By making your windows more airtight and efficient, you will save money. If replacing drafty windows is not an option right now, consider utilizing one or more of these energy-saving ideas:

• Window quilts: Thick window quilts or window coverings with a thermal backing add an extra layer of protection against heat loss. Keep in mind that your window quilts should be pulled aside during the sunniest part of the day to promote solar heat gain in your home.
• Cellular shades: Cellular shades are designed to protect your windows from heat loss while letting the sunshine in during the day. They can be purchased at many home decorating retailers.
• Plastic window film: Plastic shrink wrap is a popular option during the winter because it is inexpensive and easy to install. Simply apply the plastic film to the window frame using double-sided tape, then heat it with a blow dryer to shrink the plastic and remove wrinkles.

You may be losing heat from your home through gaps in and around the doors. If you want to lower your wintertime energy bills, consider these tips:

• Pet doors: If you have a flap door for your pet, you might be losing a great deal of heat through the flap if it gaps or closes loosely. Consider sealing it up for the winter or adding a protective layer of sheepskin over the flap.
• Weather stripping: To prevent heat loss through gaps along your door frames, cover them with weather stripping or fill with caulking. This is a popular technique for avoiding heat loss because it is effective and inexpensive.
• Draft dodger: It really doesn't get much easier than this. If your door frame has warped over time, leaving a gap around the bottom, sometimes you just need to cover it up with a draft dodger that extends the entire width of the door. You can make a draft dodger yourself or purchase one at many home improvement stores.

There are all sorts of small leaks around the house that contribute to heat loss. While weather-proofing your home for winter, examine these types of areas for possible heat loss:

• Electrical outlets on outside walls
• Wall switches and fixtures on outside walls
• Mail slots
• Chimneys
• Radiators
• Doors left open in infrequently used spaces like extra bedrooms, closets, bathrooms and cabinets

By implementing any of these ideas to prevent unnecessary heat loss in your home, there is no doubt you will save on energy costs this winter.