Gearing up for Minnesota Winter Weather – Minneapolis MN

 
The snow has fallen and the temperature has dropped recently in our wonderful state of Minnesota. It is something we have grown accustom to throughout our existence. With that being said there are a few things a homeowner can do to increase their energy efficiency and decrease their monthly bills. What are they? Read further to find out.

Adding Attic Insulation & Sealing Your Bypasses

 
That’s right! We’ve all heard of insulation and might have a basic understanding of what Minneapolis insulation contractor does for our home, but did you know that adding the proper amount of attic insulation plus sealing your leaky bypasses (ex: electrical wires, recessed lights, pipes, and etc) can add up to BIG SAVINGS all year long!

*Adding loose fill attic insulation to your home is one great way to save on energy usage. The state of Minnesota recommends in R49-R60 inside your attic. You can expect to see a 10% to 20% savings on heating and cooling bills according to DOE Building America Best Practices.

(Newer homes may have sufficient insulation but older homes tend to have 4-7 inches (R11 to R19) of insulation in there attic.)

*Attic Air Sealing is the main component to mitigating ice dams and preventing warm moist air from traveling into your attic and carrying energy savings with it. Air sealing your attic is becoming the largest topic in the insulation field.

(All three major energy companies in Minnesota have decided to combat energy wasting by focusing on air-sealing projects. That should tell you how important air sealing truly is for your home.)

*Bypasses such as wires, recessed lights, pipes are sealed using the appropriate spray foam or recess can box to prevent air flow into your attic.

Other Winterizing Tips for Minnesota Winters

 
Turn Down Your Water Heater – Most water heaters are set for 140 degrees F by installers. Most homes don’t need that much steam and can save money by lowering the temp to 120 degrees F. It could cut your water heating costs up to 10%.

Thermostat Awareness – Turn down the heat when you leave the building. For every degree you will save 1-3% on your heating bill. Use a programmable thermostat to make it easier.

Plastic Wrap Your Windows – Installing a plastic wrap kit on your windows can decrease drafts that carry your energy away with them. Most window kits are cheap and can keep your home feeling warmer.

Tax Credits & Rebates for Energy Savings – Check with your local energy provider to see if they have energy rebates on adding insulation, getting a new furnace or upgrading your windows. Your local government may have programs in place to increase your home’s energy efficiency. Call or check online for city, state, or federal government programs that may offer a tax credit on home improvements.