Preparing your Home for Winter

Now is the time to prepare for the winter season.  With heating costs on the rise you can make your home more energy efficient and save money.  You can start with routine maintenance and inspection of your heating system.  Have a professional inspect your furnace yearly.  Stock up on furnace filters, they should be changed often.  Vacuum heater grates and vents, open all heating vents and move furniture in front of the vents.

Weather stripping and caulking is very inexpensive and can cut down on drafts.  Use weather stripping around doors and caulk windows.

The fireplace should be professionally cleaned and inspected before use.  There is the possibility of cracks or disintegration in the fireplace as well as clogs caused by  leaves or in the chimney.  Close the damper on your fireplace when not in use to help prevent hot air from escaping.

Shut off outside faucets and bring in hoses. Clear the gutters of leaves and other debris to prevent ice buildup.  Keep gutters clean throughout the winter.  To prevent ice dams on your roof during winter use a snow rake.

At the end of the fall season the lawn mower needs to be emptied of fuel.  Start and run the mower to empty it of the remaining gas, and then put it away for the season. Check your snow blower before the first snow fall.  Put in a fresh spark plug, check the oil and add fresh gas, prime the engine and give it a pull.  Have your snow shovel in easy reach.  Stock up on rock salt for ice melting.  Salt collects on carpets; you may have to clean your rug using carpet shampoo. Use door mats and trays for snowy boots and shoes. 

Use winter scented candles and potpourri. Change your bed linens to thicker blankets, comforters and flannel sheets. Prepare for power outages with flashlights, batteries, non perishable food and bottled water.