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The benefits of insulating your pipes include preventing freezing, sweating, and condensation. In addition, insulating your pipes can make your home more energy-efficient by keeping your pipes from losing or gaining heat. You’ll be able to turn the temperature of your water heater down by two to four degrees Fahrenheit. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this can reduce energy costs by 3% to 4% per year.

Single-pane windows might let in the cold, but if you’re not ready for a long-term solution or window replacement, there are quick fixes to keep your space warmer. Start by sealing gaps with weatherstripping or caulking around the frame to block drafts. For an extra barrier, apply window insulation film to the glass, trapping an air pocket between the film and the window. Thick curtains or thermal drapes can also help keep the chill at bay. And if you’re in a pinch and looking to get creative, bubble wrap can provide a surprisingly effective layer of insulation—just spritz the window with water and press it on, bubble side in.

It’s technically possible to install loose-fill cellulose insulation without a blower, but it’s much more time-consuming, tedious, and dangerous. You’ll need to wear the proper protective coverings to handle the cellulose after it’s been doused in boric acid; use a shovel when you can to transport the material from the bag into the wall cavity.

That said, if you purchase cellulose materials at a home improvement store, ask if they rent out blowers for free or at a discounted rate. In many cases, if you buy the material from the store, they’ll rent out the blower at no extra cost.

An outdoor spigot needs some attention before the temperatures begin to drop. Using an insulative cover is just one part of minimizing a frozen spigot and pipes. You’ll also need to shut off the water and drain the spigot, which leaves as little water as possible in the pipes to prevent freezing.