The wind is howling and it's a blustery day today in the Lehigh Valley.  It's time to start thinking about tips for staying warm this winter. 

Here you'll find strategies to help you save energy during the cold winter months and keep warm!

1.  Call A.B.E. Doors & Windows!

Most importantly, if you haven't already done so, contact A.B.E. Doors to look into energy saving Windows and Doors.  This can be the most effective means for staying warm and reducing your energy costs.  Contact us for your Free Estimate Today!

2.  Take Advantage of Heat from the Sun

Open curtains on your south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home, and close them at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

3.  Cover Drafty Windows

Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames during the cold winter months. Make sure the plastic is sealed tightly to the frame to help reduce infiltration.  Install tight-fitting, insulating drapes or shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing.

4.  Adjust the Temperature

When you are home and awake, set your thermostat as low as is comfortable.  When you are asleep or out of the house, turn your thermostat back 10°–15° for eight hours and save around 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills. A programmable thermostat can make it easy to set back your temperature.

5.  Find and Seal Leaks

Seal the air leaks around utility cut-throughs for pipes ("plumbing penetrations"), gaps around chimneys and recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. 

6.  Maintain Your Heating Systems

Schedule service for your heating system.  Find out what maintenance is required to keep your heating system operating efficiently.

7. Reduce Heat Loss from the Fireplace

Keep your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is going. Keeping the damper open is like keeping a window wide open during the winter; it allows warm air to go right up the chimney.  When you use the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window slightly—approximately 1 inch—and close doors leading into the room. Lower the thermostat setting to between 50° and 55°F.

8.  Lower Your Water Heating Costs

Water heating can account for 14%-25% of the energy consumed in your home.  Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120°F).