If the thermometer didn’t already tell you: Winter is here! While you’re breaking out your heavy sweaters and jackets, remember that your home also needs protection from the cold. Here are five home maintenance tips you should add to your winter to-do list:
Tip 1: Check for drafts
Cold air can be a big drain on your energy consumption—and your wallet. Keep your house warm and your utility bills low by checking for drafts around doors and windows. Replace worn-out weather stripping and re-caulk as needed to create a tight seal.
Tip 2: Be fire smart
Did you know house fires are most common in the winter? Be prepared by taking simple precautions like checking smoke detector batteries and examining your fire extinguisher. If you have a fireplace, hire a professional to inspect and clean it before lighting the first cozy fire of the season.
Tip 3: Inspect the furnace
Have your furnace professionally maintained every year to ensure it is running properly. This may seem like an added expense, but it’s better (and cheaper) to do it now than risk an issue during a storm, when you might have to wait days without heat before getting it repaired.
Tip 4: Clear out clutter
Decluttering your house can make a world of difference. Whether you’re planning to host holiday guests or need to make room for festive decor (or both!), a clean and organized space will put your mind at ease. Get into the giving spirit by donating or selling unwanted items. Deep clean the areas you don’t typically get to (we’re looking at you, medicine cabinet and broom closet). A clean home is a happy home!
Tip 5: Stock up on supplies
It’s always wise to have a survival kit, but be sure it includes what you may need for the winter months, especially if the power goes out. Supplies like blankets, flashlights, batteries, water, and canned goods will prepare you for even the worst winter conditions. Need a generator? Consider buying one—an automatic standby generator might even add to your home’s curb appeal.
