Hints from Heloise

Dear Readers: With colder weather here, now would be a great time to make sure your home is weatherized and insulated, which could also lead to a savings of up to 35 percent on your utility bill. Besides saving money, you might also get more years out of your heating system. Here are a few hints to get you started:

•Insulated window treatments can really make a difference in keeping cold temperatures out and warm heat in.

•Check for drafts and weatherstrip any doors or windows that might be letting cold air in. Don’t forget about fireplaces, electrical outlets, cabinets and other places where pipes or wires enter your home that might also need to be sealed – you can pack these areas with insulation or caulking.

•Insulate hot-water pipes wherever they are exposed in unheated areas – check the garage or attic. And, while you’re at it, wrap insulation around your hot-water heater. – Heloise