As fall gets underway, it is a good time to check your elderly parent’s home before colder weather arrives. Drafts around windows and doors can make rooms feel colder and cause the heating system to work harder. A few affordable weatherproofing fixes can make a noticeable difference in comfort and energy use throughout the colder months.
Locate Where the Drafts Are
Before buying supplies, walk through the house and look for places where cold air could get in. Check around windows, exterior doors, electrical outlets, the attic hatch, and areas where pipes or vents pass through walls. Mark problem areas with painter's tape so you know where to make repairs. If you find a larger problem, such as gaps around ductwork or the attic, consider having a professional take a look.
Start with Simple, Low-Cost Fixes
Weatherstripping around doors is an inexpensive way to reduce drafts. Look for worn or missing strips around exterior doors and replace them as needed. A door sweep can also block cold air from coming in underneath the door. A removable rope caulk or a window insulation kit can also reduce window drafts.
Electrical outlets on exterior walls can also let in cold air. Foam outlet gaskets are inexpensive and easy to install. Turn off the power at the breaker before removing an outlet or switch plate, and only do this yourself if you are comfortable with the work.
Heavy curtains can add another layer of insulation around older windows. Close them at night and open them during sunny days when the extra sunlight can warm the room.
Consider Larger Improvements
If your budget allows, there are a few other projects worth considering. Plastic window insulation film can provide another barrier against drafts during the colder months. Check the attic access panel, as warm air can escape through gaps around the hatch. Weatherstripping or an insulated cover can reduce this air loss without requiring a major project.
If your parent has exposed water pipes in an unheated area, pipe insulation can reduce the risk of freezing during very cold weather. Pay particular attention to pipes in crawl spaces, garages, and other areas that are not heated.
It is also worth having the heating system checked before winter. Regular maintenance can identify problems before they become an emergency. Replace the furnace filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations and keep vents clear of furniture, rugs, and curtains.
Make the Home More Comfortable
Once you have dealt with drafts, look at the rooms where your parent spends the most time. Keep a warm pair of socks and slippers with non-slip soles near the bed or favorite chair. A blanket or heated throw can also make a sitting area more comfortable.
If they use a heater, keep it on a level surface away from bedding, curtains, and furniture. Move chairs and recliners away from drafty exterior walls, and make sure furniture or curtains are not blocking the vents. It is also worth calling your parent's utility company to ask about winter assistance or weatherization programs. Some offer free home energy assessments or help with improvements for households that meet certain income requirements.
Top-Notch In-Home Care You Can Always Rely On
Keeping an older adult comfortable through the colder months involves more than checking windows and doors. Your parent may also need support with meals, household routines, errands, and other everyday tasks as the weather changes. Senior Helpers Smoky Mountains provides in-home support for older adults across Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Walland, White Pine, and East Knoxville. Contact us to start exploring your options.