Weatherizing before winter can be good investment
Posted: Monday, September 08, 2008
PIERRE, S.D. (AP) -- The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission is encouraging people to weatherize their homes before cold temperatures hit.
"It really is worthwhile to take time to assess your home, identify areas that need attention and make those fixes before the cold wind starts howling at our doors and windows," said PUC Chairman Gary Hanson.
Air leaks are a common problem, he said, and can be sealed with caulk, spray foam or weather stripping. Places to search for air leaks are around electrical outlets, switch plates, window frames, baseboards, doors, attic hatches and wall- or window-mounted air conditioners.
PUC Vice Chairman Steve Kolbeck also suggests people get their furnaces professionally inspected to ensure they're working properly and efficiently.
"You don't want to wait for the first temperature drop to find out you have a problem with your heating system," he said. "You should also plan to change or clean your furnace filter once a month."
The best investment could be adding insulation, which can lower energy bills and make homes more comfortable, said PUC Commissioner Dusty Johnson. Heating needs can be reduced 10 percent with proper insulation and sealing air leaks, he said.
"It really is worthwhile to take time to assess your home, identify areas that need attention and make those fixes before the cold wind starts howling at our doors and windows," said PUC Chairman Gary Hanson.
Air leaks are a common problem, he said, and can be sealed with caulk, spray foam or weather stripping. Places to search for air leaks are around electrical outlets, switch plates, window frames, baseboards, doors, attic hatches and wall- or window-mounted air conditioners.
PUC Vice Chairman Steve Kolbeck also suggests people get their furnaces professionally inspected to ensure they're working properly and efficiently.
"You don't want to wait for the first temperature drop to find out you have a problem with your heating system," he said. "You should also plan to change or clean your furnace filter once a month."
The best investment could be adding insulation, which can lower energy bills and make homes more comfortable, said PUC Commissioner Dusty Johnson. Heating needs can be reduced 10 percent with proper insulation and sealing air leaks, he said.
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