Get the Best Winter Activities
4. Stock up on sand and salt for icy driveways and walkways. Have a shovel and/or snowblower (in good working order) easily accessible.
FOR THE INTERIOR OF YOUR HOME 1. Have your heating system cleaned and inspected by a professional. An improperly operating system may emit potentially deadly carbon monoxide. When a system runs inefficiently, it can also cost more money. Ask the inspector to show you the locations of the emergency gas and/or electric shutoffs for your heating system. You will need to use them in the event of a system malfunction.
2. Be sure to know where your water main shutoff is located. You will need to close it if your pipes freeze. Don’t forget to turn off the water to your outside faucets, or those lines may also freeze.
3. Remove window screens and replace them with storm windows. Sheets of clear plastic can be used to cover windows for extra draft protection. Some are even available which shrink to fit your windows perfectly. The only tool you need for that job is a blow dryer!
4. To further keep out drafts, put weather-stripping around windows and doors.
5. Have candles, extra blankets, firewood and flashlights (with working batteries) on hand in case of a power outage. Don’t store firewood indoors for the winter, though. The creepy-crawlies living it will quickly take up residence in your nice warm home!
6. Protect the outdoor half of your permanently installed air conditioner from the elements by covering it with plastic. Remove window air conditioning units and winterize the windows that housed them.
When you’ve already spent all your EXTRA MONEY ON NEW LIVING ROOM FURNITURE — SOME TIPS:
1. To help keep away icy drafts, roll up old towels and place them at the base of doors that lead outside.
2. When you rake your lawn this fall, put the leaves in plastic garbage bags, then place the bags around your foundation to help keep the cold at bay. Bales of hay will also work if you happen to have some handy.
3. Don’t let your heat go up the chimney! Remember to close your fireplace flue after the fire goes out.
4. Make sure your homeowner’s insurance policy gives you adequate coverage in the event that winter damage does occur. Check to make sure your deductible is an amount you can afford to spend if repairs do need to be made.
5. If you spend money on nothing else, be sure to have your heating system inspected. A properly operating system could actually save you money in the long run. More importantly, it could save your life.
