Winter in New York can bring cold weather, strong winds, and higher energy use. A few small steps can help you stay warm, avoid repairs, and keep your bills under control. Here are five simple ways to get your home ready for the season.
1. Keep Up with Basic Home Care
A home works better when it’s checked regularly. Look around your home at least twice a year so you can catch small problems early. Fixing things before winter — like leaks, drafty windows, or broken vents — helps your home stay comfortable when the cold arrives.
2. Take Care of Your Heating System
Your heating system works hard in winter. Keeping it in good shape saves energy and keeps your home warm.
- Have a trained technician check your furnace, boiler, or heat pump once a year.
- Replace or clean filters every 3 months.
- Keep vents and radiators clear of furniture.
- If you can, use a programmable or smart thermostat. Lowering the temperature at night or when you’re away can save money.
3. Stop Drafts and Add Insulation
Cold air can sneak in through small gaps around doors, windows, and walls. Sealing these spots is one of the easiest ways to stay warm.
Try these steps:
- Add weatherstripping to doors and windows
- Caulk around window frames and wall openings
- Add foam gaskets behind outlet covers on outside walls
- Check attic or wall insulation
- Open curtains on sunny days and close them at night
4. Protect Your Pipes and Outside Areas
Frozen pipes can burst and cause damage. Before winter gets very cold:
- Clean gutters
- Disconnect hoses
- Drain outdoor lines
- Turn off outdoor water valves
- Cover outdoor faucets
5. Get a Home Energy Assessment
A home energy assessment can show where your home is losing heat and what upgrades can help you save money.
Need Help? The Energy Hub Is Here.
The Bronx & Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub offers free support to help you access weatherization programs, grants, energy assessments, and incentives for home upgrades.Visit the Energy Hub and connect with us to get started.
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