Winterizing Your Home Can Help Cut Down On Harsh Heating Bills

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The season is changing and there is plenty to look forward to. The leaves are changing colors and the air is crisp and cool.

With winter on the horizon many homeowners have already started to brace themselves for harsh heating bills.

"I have an old house. I am really worried about heating and the cost and the drafts through the window," Quogue resident Veronique Louis told CBS 2's Jennifer McLogan on Friday.

Some people have started to consult experts and home improvement centers to find answers.

"Winterizing your home is all about common sense," East End contractor George Degener said.

There are a number of simple steps that homeowners can take to cut down on winter heating costs, according to contractors.

Clearing gutters of leaves and debris can prevent ice dams from forming and seeping into the home and expanding foam, masonry sealer, or caulk can prevent cold air from leaking in.

"Put a bead of caulk to seal it for winter. Make sure windows are locked," Degener said.

Older attics may need an extra layer of insulation and tuning up your furnace can also help. Poorly connected and insulated ducts can create a chilly house and radiators should be vacuumed to provide maximum airflow.

Experts also suggest getting your chimney swept annually, reversing the direction of ceiling fans to push warm air down, and insulating pipes are all also essential steps in winterizing your home.

Finally, homeowners should check and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before the winter season rolls around, contractors said.

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