How to weather-proof your home, save money on energy during Wichita’s cold front
It’s less than a week until Christmas and Wichitans are about to get a bitter cold taste of winter.
A cold front is making its way to Wichita Wednesday night, with wind chills as low as minus 40 Thursday morning. People should expect dangerous wind chills, strong wind gusts and snowfall, and avoid going out as much as possible.
For those who are staying inside to avoid the frigid cold, we’ve gathered easy tips and tricks from Kansas Gas Service and Black Hills Energy to prepare your house and reduce the cost of energy.
Cover windows
Window coverings can help keep warmth inside and reduce energy usage. Keeping your windows covered when it’s dark and only uncovering the window that’s facing the sun when it’s out can help, according to the Kansas Gas Service’s website.
Covering windows can save up 30% of energy, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Using a covering can be an easy and affordable way to bundle up in the cold.
Apply weather-stripping
Applying weather-stripping or caulk is another way to stay warm and save on energy usage. Sealing gaps around windows and doors prevents warm air from leaking out and cold air coming in.
It’s easy to know if you’re letting air in. Black Hills Energy recommends holding a one dollar bill next to a door or window. If it moves by a breeze, you know there are gaps in your doors or windows that can be sealed.
Don’t overuse fans
According to Black Hills Energy, it only takes one hour for kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans to blow away warm air. Use these fans only when necessary in order to preserve as much warm air as possible.
Other tips
There are multiple other ways to stay warm and save money. Keeping your house’s humidity well-adjusted, insulating your attic or top floor and keeping your fireplace damper closed tightly are three other easy ways to do so.
It’s just as important to stay safe while staying warm. Always keep filters clean and never use grills, ovens or gas ranges to heat your home. You should also install a carbon monoxide detector and pick up on scents if you start smelling gas.
This story was originally published December 21, 2022 at 5:00 AM.
