Truckee Donner Public Utility District

Winter Tips & Tricks

Winter is here and with it comes freezing temperatures. Are you prepared for the colder weather? Check out these tips & tricks to protect your home against damage and keep your energy use in check.

• Drain your irrigation system(s): Draining your outdoor irrigation systems before the ground temperatures freeze your pipes will prevent expensive water leaks next spring.
• Check your pipe insulation: Pipe insulation saves water and energy! It prevents pipes from bursting due to freezing and it prevents heat loss in your hot water system.
• Close exterior air vents around your home: Exterior vents remain open in the summer to ventilate your home’s foundation and crawl space area but need to be closed in the winter to keep the cold and moisture out.
• Use window coverings: Insulating blinds or curtains can dramatically reduce heat loss from your home at night - making your home more comfortable and reducing the amount of electricity, gas, and/or wood needed to heat your home.
• Check for cracks around windows: Make sure to fill any obvious cracks around your windows. This can help seal heat in and keep the cold out of your home and reduce energy bills at the same time.
• Check your weather-stripping: A simple strip of weather stripping around your exterior doors will eliminate cold drafts coming into your home, making it more comfortable and reducing heating costs.
• Insulating wall sockets: Did you know that a lot of cold air can sneak into your home through your wall sockets? Check to make sure that all sockets on exterior walls have an insulating gasket installed behind the socket plate. They are inexpensive and easy to install and they will reduce heating costs for you this winter!
• Service your heating system: Make sure that your heating system is in tip top shape and can work as efficiently and safely as possible this winter! If you have a central furnace make sure that there are no leaks in the ductwork around your home.
• Close the damper on your fireplace: When not using your fireplace close the damper or glass door. This will stop heat from escaping from your living space up the chimney.
• Let the sun in during the day: Use the sun as a natural heater for your home. When it is shining make sure that your window covings are open. Your windows will let light in and trap it inside your house, helping it to naturally heat up.
• Wear warm clothes indoors: Drop your thermostat to 68° F and make up the difference with warm clothes and blankets.
• Turn thermostats down at night time: Adjust heating system thermostat slightly lower than daytime setting when people are sleeping or away from home. No need to heat space when it is not needed.
• Replace your air filter: Remember to replace your air filter when it gets dirty. Consistent maintenance will improve your indoor air quality and help your central furnace not work as hard to pump air through the house.
• Uncover those hidden heater vents: Remove furniture and carpeting from heater vents to allow proper circulation of heat.
• Preparing for a remodel? Check out our rebate programs and upgrade your home today!