As the days get shorter and the air gets crisper, it’s time to start thinking about getting your humble abode all cozied up for the colder months ahead. Preparing your home for winter not only keeps you snug as a bug but also saves you from potential headaches down the road. You need to ensure that your heating system is working properly before the winter starts. From taking out winter clothes to making a hot chocolate every night, there are many things to do before winter nights.
Here are six tips to get your home winter-ready.
Inspect and Seal Drafts
In winter, you may have experienced a chilly breeze that sneaks its way into your living room. That’s actually a draft, and you need to take some steps to seal them. Check around your home and identify any gaps or cracks in windows, doors, and even the attic. A bit of weather-stripping or caulking can go a long way in keeping the cold air out and your heating bill in check. Make sure to cover your windows with good quality drapes.
Check Your Heating System
Before the frosty season sets in, it’s a good idea to give your heating system some TLC. Change the air filters, check the pilot light, and consider getting a professional to perform a thorough inspection. Its best to look for any issues beforehand so you don’t even up with the broken furnace on the coldest day of the year.
Fireplace Preparation
If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, winter is its time to shine. But before you cozy up with a good book and a crackling fire, make sure you give it a thorough cleaning. You can call professionals to conduct home chimney inspection before winter. Clear out any ash and debris, and if you have a chimney, consider getting it professionally inspected and cleaned to prevent any unwanted surprises.
Insulate Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are a winter woe you definitely want to avoid. Insulate exposed pipes in your basement, garage, and crawl spaces to prevent them from freezing and potentially bursting. A little insulation can go a long way in avoiding a messy and costly situation. Make sure to call in a professional to get the pipes insulated.
Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Before the snowflakes start falling, make sure you’re stocked up on winter essentials. Salt or sand for your walkways, a snow shovel, and a good supply of blankets can all come in handy. If you get hit with a winter storm, you’ll be all set to tackle the snow and stay warm and cosy indoors.
Mind Your Energy Usage
As temperatures drop, it’s tempting to crank up the heat to tropical levels. But before you do, consider these energy-saving tips. Use draft stoppers to keep warm air from escaping under doors, keep curtains and blinds closed at night to trap heat, and consider using space heaters strategically in smaller rooms instead of blasting the central heating.
