As the days grow shorter and the air becomes more crisp, it’s time to start thinking about how to prepare your home for the colder weather. There are a few simple things you can do around the house to make sure you and your family are cozy and warm all winter long. Here are a few of our favorite tips:
1. Inspect your home’s insulation and make sure it’s adequate. This is especially important in attics, crawl spaces, and any other areas where heat can escape.
2. Bring in any outdoor furniture or decorations that you don’t want to get ruined by the cold weather.
3. Seal any cracks or gaps around doors and windows to prevent drafts. Caulk and weatherstripping are inexpensive and easy to apply, and they make a big difference in keeping your home warm.
4. Your heating system is one of the most important appliances in your home especially during the winter, so it’s important to keep it in good working order. Service your heating system to make sure it’s in good working order and won’t break down when you need it most.
5. If you have any pipes that are vulnerable to freezing, insulate them or allow them to drip slightly to prevent them from freezing solid. Also, always remember to never pour any hot liquids down the drain, as this can cause the pipes to crack.
6. A ceiling fan can be used to help circulate warm air throughout a room. To do this, simply reverse the direction of the blades so that they spin clockwise. This will create a gentle updraft that will push warm air near the ceiling down into the rest of the room.
7. Put together an emergency kit in case of power outages or other problems that might arise during the winter. This emergency kit should include non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, and any medications you might need.
8. Make sure you have all the supplies you need to stay warm. Stock up on warm clothing, blankets, and other winter essentials like firewood and food. This way you’ll be prepared for whatever the weather throws your way.
9. Have your furnace serviced by a professional before the cold weather arrives. Additionally, make sure you have plenty of fuel on hand to keep your furnace running.
10. Set your thermostat to a lower temperature so your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard to heat your home. For every degree you lower it, you’ll save about 1% on your energy bill.
11. Consider investing in a programmable thermostat so you can automatically lower the temperature when you’re not home. This can save you even more money on your energy bills.
12. Prepare for power outages due to the winter weather. Always make sure you have a flashlight and extra batteries on hand. Then charge your phone and other devices regularly so you can stay connected in case of an emergency.
By taking these simple steps, you can help prevent winter weather damage and keep your family safe and comfortable all season long. Remember to stay warm and be safe this winter!