Winter Is Coming — Here’s How to Get Your Home Ready

PECO energy assessments for homes: https://www.peco.com/ways-to-save/for-your-home/energy-assessments/energy-assessment 

This is a subsidized 1-2 hour home energy inspection from a PECO authorized HVAC firm for $49.00.  This does not include a blower door test.  For low-income households, a waiver of the fee is available.  For homes with electric heat (including heat pumps), a more in-depth assessment is available for $99.00, including a blower door test and thermal imaging to help identify air leaks and heat loss. 

If you have Air-source Heat Pumps/Mini-splits, these rebates are available for maintenance: https://www.peco.com/ways-to-save/for-your-home/rebates-discounts/heating-cooling-rebates

Usual tasks for you or your heating professional:  

• Clean/replace air filters on systems that circulate air

• Check outside air handlers and clear of plants or leaves that snuck in over the summer

• Bleed air out of radiators that circulate hot water (recirculating hot water systems)

• Close storm windows after cleaning out dust and leaves

• Check and repair weather-stripping around doors

Other pre-winter reminders:

• Drain hoses, hose-bibs and other pipes that might freeze

• Empty plant pots or bring them in

• Prepare for those winter storms: find the snow shovel, salt or sand, and winter boots! 

These steps will help you reduce heating losses and protect against freeze damage.