BLOOMINGTON, Ill., Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Winterizing your home can save you money.
Installing energy efficient windows can reduce your heating bills and net you a federal tax credit. Some energy efficient windows are also impact resistant, which could result in an insurance discount ranging from 2 to 10 percent depending on the state. The federal tax credit is scheduled to run out by the end of the year, so now is the time to consider making this improvement.
If replacing windows is too steep for the wallet this year, consider winterizing your home in other ways. By taking a few simple precautions, you can save yourself the mess, money and aggravation frozen pipes can cause.
Insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic. Exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Remember - the more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.
Heat tape or thermostatically-controlled heat cables can be used to wrap pipes. Be sure to use products approved by an independent testing organization, such as Underwriters Laboratories Inc., and only for the use intended (exterior or interior). Closely follow all manufacturers' installation and operation instructions.
Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents and pipes. Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out and the heat in. With severe cold, even a tiny opening can let in enough cold air to cause a pipe to freeze.
Disconnect garden hoses and, if practical, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This reduces the chance of freezing in the short span of pipe just inside the house.
Clean out your gutters. Cleaning out gutters will help prevent water from spilling over and allowing water to accumulate near the foundation, which can cause damage.
Consider installing a whole house leak detection system. These systems feature a shut-off valve that is installed on the main water supply pipe. When a leak is detected, the system will automatically shut off the entire water supply. For a list of leak detection systems, visit statefarm.com.
These simple steps can help keep your home warm and secure this winter. For more information about how to be prepared for freezing temperatures, visit statefarm.com or your local State Farm agent.
About State Farm®:
State Farm insures more cars and homes than any other insurer in the U.S., is the leading insurer of watercraft and is also a leading insurer in Canada. Our 17,800 agents and more than 68,000 employees serve 81 million policies and accounts – more than 79 million auto, fire, life and health policies in the United States and Canada, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 34 on the Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit statefarm.com® or in Canada statefarm.ca®.
SOURCE State Farm
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