Baby it's Cold Outside

9 Simple Steps to Save Money Heating Your Hen House

Hello HIP Chicks & Gents. I hope 2013 has started off beautifully for you. It has been really crazy in my Hen House, but it's all good stuff!

Even though it is mid - late January, we still have weeks of winter weather ahead of us. It is not too late to take simple steps to save yourself money on heating costs.

Here are a few easy projects you can do this weekend when temps are above 40*. These steps increase efficiency of your heating systems and seal up air leaks. Please do try this at home!

• For forced hot air systems, change the air filter on your heating system every three months
• For baseboard heat, vacuum the baseboard housing and fins often and gently with brush attachment
• For drafts at windows, apply a clear temporary caulk where the panes meet (see picture)
• Make sure your thermostat control is level, secured to the wall and free of dust
• Apply pipe insulators to hot water pipes to keep hot water hot for showers and radiant heat
• Add fiberglass blanket or insulating kit to hot water heater
• Keep attached garages closed as much as possible to warm adjoining rooms
• Apply weatherstripping to drafty openings - There are many kinds of sealants, ask for help at the home store
• Install a programmable thermostat - This device will let you keep the heat down during the day when no one is home and during the night when you are under cover!

 Beth Allen, DIYer and Founder of HIP Chicks www.diyhipchicks.com