Don't let the cold, gray weather get you down. If you're stuck inside, now is the perfect time to take on some of the indoor home improvement projects you've been putting off. These simple projects will help make your home more comfortable and efficient and save you money on your energy bills.
Install low-flow showerheads
Standard showerheads use 2.5 gallons per minute or more. WaterSense-labeled models can save water and energy while still providing a comfortable flow.
- Turn off water sources for both hot and cold at the faucet.
- Unscrew your existing showerhead by turning counterclockwise.
- Clean off the shower arm threads and make sure they are dry.
- Apply Teflon thread-sealing tape, wrapping the tape two or three times around the threads.
- Hand tighten the new showerhead onto the shower arm. Be careful not to overtighten.
- Run the shower and check for leaks. If it leaks, gently tighten it with a wrench using a cloth to protect the finish.
Air seal your basement
Air leaking into your basement can make the space feel colder and increase your winter energy bills.
- Check for gaps in the rim joists where the wall meets the ceiling, as well as plumbing and wiring holes on outside walls.
- Caulk is best for sealing gaps or cracks that are one-quarter inch or smaller.
- Use spray foam insulation to fill gaps up to three inches.
- Fill larger gaps by cutting and stuffing pieces of insulation.
Insulate hot water pipes
Heat loss through unprotected hot water pipes can cost you. Pipe insulation is readily available at your local DIY retailer.
- Starting at the water heater, measure the length of insulation needed to cover accessible pipes.
- Cut the insulation to the lengths needed.
- Place the insulation on the pipe with the seam or opening facing down.
- Tape the insulation every foot or so to secure it to the pipe
Air seal your attic
Leaks in unfinished attics can waste energy, even when adequate insulation is installed.
- Locate all ceiling fans, recessed lighting fixtures and electrical outlets in the ceiling below your attic. Each of these is a potential source of air leakage.
- From the attic, pull back the insulation to find the cutouts and seal them with caulk or expandable foam.
- Check for and seal gaps around plumbing vents, furnace flues and ductwork.
- Seal the attic access with weatherstripping.
Switch to smart outlets
Replace older electric outlets with smart models. Smart outlets automatically shut off power to unused plugged-in devices. And you can control them from your smartphone or voice assistant.
- Turn off the power to the outlet you're working on.
- Remove the outlet trim and disconnect the old outlet.
- Connect the new outlet wires — white to white and black to black. Attach the green wire to the bare ground wire.
- Attach the wired outlet to the box and install the new trim.
- Download the outlet control app and add the outlet to your system.
Contact a qualified electrician if you don't feel comfortable doing the work yourself.
These projects will keep you occupied during the dreary days of winter, and the lower energy bills will give you a warm feeling inside.