Five Resolutions for Homeowners in the New Year

As we welcome 2025, it's the perfect time for homeowners to take stock of their living spaces and set resolutions that enhance comfort, sustainability, and value. This year, focus on improvements that not only make your home more enjoyable but also keep you ahead in energy savings and design trends. Here are five resolutions to inspire your journey toward a better home in 2025.

1. Streamlined Home Maintenance with Technology
   Take your home maintenance schedule to the next level by incorporating technology. Use home maintenance apps or set up reminders on your smart devices to stay on top of tasks like gutter cleaning, HVAC checks, and roof inspections. Proactive maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming major headaches and saves you money in the long run. Consider subscribing to a seasonal home inspection service to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

2. Boost Energy Efficiency with Smart Solutions
   Energy efficiency continues to be a top priority for modern homeowners. In 2025, go beyond the basics by investing in cutting-edge solutions. Smart window films, energy-monitoring devices, and solar panel installations are excellent upgrades. Pair these with AI-driven smart thermostats that learn your habits to optimize heating and cooling. These innovations not only reduce your carbon footprint but can also significantly cut energy bills.

3. Refresh and Repurpose Your Spaces
   Decluttering remains a classic resolution, but this year, add a twist by repurposing your spaces. Transform an underused corner into a cozy reading nook, or convert the guest room into a multifunctional office and hobby area. Donate items you no longer need and embrace a minimalist approach that prioritizes functionality and joy. For additional inspiration, explore virtual interior design services to help you make the most of your home.

4. Upgrade Your Home Security Ecosystem
   Security technology is evolving rapidly, making it easier than ever to protect your home. In 2025, enhance your security system with features like video doorbells, AI-powered cameras with facial recognition, and smart locks controlled via smartphone. Integrate your security devices into a central hub for seamless monitoring. A secure home brings peace of mind and adds value when it's time to sell.

5. Reduce Energy and Natural Gas Usage
   With winter in full swing, it's an ideal time to focus on reducing energy and natural gas consumption. Seal drafts around windows and doors, upgrade to energy-efficient windows, and add extra insulation to your attic and walls. Install a high-efficiency furnace or boiler to optimize heating while cutting costs. Simple actions like lowering your thermostat a few degrees and using a programmable or smart thermostat can also make a big difference in your utility bills and environmental impact.

As you implement these resolutions, break them into manageable steps and consider future savings and potential resale value when budgeting. Your home is more than a place to live—it's an evolving investment. Let 2025 be the year you create a more comfortable, secure, and sustainable living environment. Happy New Year!

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Smart Tips to Tackle Skyrocketing Winter Energy Bills

The holiday season brings joy, festive lights, and cozy nights, but it also means higher energy bills. With electric companies predicting an average seven percent increase for Connecticut households starting in January, now is the perfect time to get ahead of the curve and cut those costs.

One often-overlooked resource is an Energize Connecticut home energy audit. For a small fee, a consultant will assess your home’s energy efficiency—checking everything from your furnace and water heater to air ducts, windows, and doors. They’ll not only identify problem areas but also offer rebates for upgrades and repairs. To get started, visit the EnergizeCT website and select your energy provider.

While scheduling an audit is a great first step, there are plenty of DIY ways to prep your home for winter and minimize energy loss. Start by targeting these common culprits:

1. Windows

Windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss. Try these tricks to stay warm and save:

• Hang heavy curtains or drapes to trap heat, especially on large glass doors or single-pane windows.

• Seal gaps with silicone caulk, especially around wooden frames that warp with age.

• Add shrink film to single-pane windows. It’s easy to apply, affordable, and available at home supply stores.

2. Doors

Doors see frequent use and can let in cold drafts. To fix this:

• Inspect your door sweep and replace it if the bristles are loose or damaged.

• Use a door snake or DIY one with old socks and rice, beans, or newspaper. These simple barriers make a big difference.

3. Attic Hatch

An attic hatch can act like a chimney, letting warm air escape.

• Install an insulated box over the hatch to keep heat where it belongs—inside your home. You’ll still have full access for holiday decor and storage items, but your home will stay warmer.

4. Water Heater

Your water heater works harder in winter, but insulation can lighten the load:

• Wrap the tank in a fiberglass blanket (available at hardware stores). Use foil tape but avoid covering any valves or pipes.

• Insulate the pipes with foam or fiberglass wrap to retain heat and reduce energy loss.

5. Insulation

Many homes lack adequate insulation, leading to sky-high heating costs.

• Proper insulation in walls and attics can reduce heating and cooling costs by 16–50%, according to the EPA.

• Investing in insulation isn’t just great for energy savings—it’s also a top-rated upgrade for boosting resale value.

By taking these steps, you can keep your home cozy without breaking the bank. Rising energy costs are no joke, but a little winterproofing can go a long way toward keeping your budget on track this season.

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro”. All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Five Simple Ways to Keep Your Home Toasty This Season

As chilly weather sets in, making your home cozy and energy-efficient becomes essential. Cold drafts, poor insulation, and outdated heating can make winter uncomfortable and expensive. The good news? You can keep the warmth in and the bills down with a few practical adjustments. Here are five smart tips for a warmer, more comfortable home this season.

1. Plug Drafts and Seal Openings Drafts are the silent culprits that let cold air sneak in. Check your windows, doors, and even spots like electrical outlets or pipe entrances for gaps. Weather stripping, caulk, and draft stoppers can work wonders in sealing these areas, ensuring that the heat stays inside where it belongs.

2. Boost Your Insulation Effective insulation is a game-changer. By adding or upgrading insulation in your attic, walls, and floors, you can dramatically reduce heat loss, keeping your home at a stable, comfortable temperature. Older homes, in particular, often benefit from an insulation upgrade.

3. Embrace Natural Sunlight Letting the sun work for you is both easy and free. Open your curtains or blinds during the day to allow sunlight to warm your space naturally. When night falls, close heavy curtains to create a barrier that keeps the day’s warmth in and the cold out.

4. Improve Your Heating System A well-functioning heating system is key to warmth and efficiency. Schedule a maintenance check to ensure your furnace or heat pump is in top shape. Upgrading to a programmable thermostat is also a simple way to customize temperatures based on your daily routine, saving energy without sacrificing comfort.

5. Consider an Energy Audit Want a professional edge? An energy audit can help pinpoint where your home is losing heat and identify opportunities for savings. Many providers, like Eversource, offer in-home audits that include air sealing, rebates, and tips for energy-efficient upgrades.

As winter approaches, implementing these small changes can make a big difference. Not only will they keep your home warmer and cozier, but they’ll also lower your energy bills, making your home more sustainable and cost-effective. Enjoy the season knowing your home is prepared for the colder months.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.