ST. JOHN VALLEY, Maine — When it comes to preparing your home for maximum energy efficiency heading into the winter Aroostook County Action Program Housing Development Officer Gary “Sonny” Sirois has some suggestions.
“The most important advice,” Sirois said, “is to seal any air leaks, inside and out.”
The basics still apply, according to Sirois. These include things such as caulking and weather-striping door frames and windows, sealing and insulating air ducts, having a qualified technician clean and inspect your furnace each year, and closing off rooms that are not used often.
Often, heat is lost through one or two larger openings. By inspecting around foundations and sills, these may be located and addressed. Using plastic sheets around the base of your home or skirting around a mobile home, and banking snow at the base of the home also helps.
Along with energy efficiency, home safety must also be a concern, according to Sirois. Inspecting and cleaning your chimney is especially important if you are burning wood to heat your home. Only seasoned wood should be used, as unseasoned wood will build up creosote inside the chimney and increase fire risk.
Sirois also warns that cold winter temperatures can lead to water damage such as frozen pipes and other problems. Cleaning out rain gutters to prevent ice dams can prevent leaks and roof damage. Extending downspouts away from your house can help prevent basement flooding and moisture issues in the spring.
ACAP also has several programs that can help qualified applicants improve the energy efficiency of their homes. “In order for a family home to be considered for the weatherization program, they must be a LIHEAP (heating fuel assistance) recipient,” Sirois said. There is no sign-up for the weatherization program as it is automatic if a client’s heating costs seem excessive. ACAP will be taking applications for LIHEAP in early October.
“The Central Heating Improvement Program is designed to assist LIHEAP recipients with furnace problems,” Sirois said If a client has an inoperable furnace and it is their sole source of heat, they can call in to see if they are eligible.
Guidelines and information on these services may be found at www.acap-me.org, or by calling 207 764-3721.
Sirois also suggests homeowners visit www.efficiencymaine.com for more information.
