Insulating and Draft-Proofing
- Install tight-fitting, insulating window shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing.
- Weather-strip your windows and doorways.
- Keep all your exterior doors tightly shut and try to avoid frequent in-and-out traffic. Stylish, padded door runners help reduce drafts under doorways (in a pinch, towels also work).
- Use a dehumidistat to maintain the right humidity level for health and comfort. It senses the humidity level and runs the ventilating fan whenever it's needed.
- Use insulating shutters or drapes and keep them closed during winter nights and summer days.
- Caulk cracks around your windows and doors.
Electrical Heating and Space Heaters
- Place electrical heaters far away from water sources.
- Be certain that your heater is placed on a level, hard and non-flammable surface, not on rugs or carpets.
- Never dry clothes by draping them over the heater.
- If you must use an extension cord, for safety reasons, use a heavy-duty cord, so it doesn't overheat.
- Always try to plug into a ground fault circuit interrupter, which prevents electric shock by shutting the heater off if electrical leakage develops.
- Check the temperature of the grille face to ensure it doesn't become too hot to touch.