Getting Your Home Ready for Winter: Essential Tips

As November begins, it's time to prepare your home for the winter months ahead. A little effort now can help you save money on heating bills and provide additional comfort during the colder months. Here's a simple guide to getting your home winter-ready.

Seal Those Drafts
One of the biggest culprits of winter heat loss is air leaks. Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping to seal gaps and consider applying plastic window film to create an extra barrier against cold air.

Service Your Heating System
If you haven't already, make sure that your heating system is in good working order for the season. Schedule an HVAC professional to inspect your furnace, clean or replace the filters, and ensure the vents are unobstructed. If you have a fireplace, have it cleaned and inspected to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Insulate Pipes & Turn Off Outdoor Water Supply
Cold temperatures can cause water pipes in unheated areas to freeze and burst. Insulate plumbing pipes located next to exterior walls or in unheated areas of the home, such as basements, crawlspaces and attics. Outside, disconnect and store any hoses and shut off the water supply to the outdoor faucets using the interior shut-off valve.

Stock Up on Supplies
Winter weather can bring storms that may leave you snowed in. Stock your pantry with non-perishable food items and make sure you have enough supplies, like batteries, flashlights, and a first-aid kit. It's also wise to keep salt or sand on hand for icy walkways and driveways.

Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With increased use of heating appliances, the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning can rise. Test your smoke & carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they're functioning correctly. Replace batteries if needed and keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible.

Get a Programmable Thermostat
Consider investing in a programmable thermostat to manage your home's temperature better. Setting it to lower temperatures while you're away or asleep can save you significant money on heating throughout the winter months.

Adjust Ceiling Fans
If you have ceiling fans, it's a good idea to adjust the blade direction during the colder months. Since cold air tends to stay near the floor and warm air rises, adjusting the fan direction from counterclockwise to clockwise can help maintain a comfortable room temperature. This change helps push warm air down the walls and across the floor.