With colder temperatures and frost and freeze becoming more widespread, now is the time to do all the household prep, both indoors and outside, so you are ready for winter.
Taking care of these simple household tasks will ensure everything is properly working over those colder months.
The air conditioning has been on throughout the summer, while the heating system has been inactive for around four to five months. Before you switch it to heat, have an HVAC professional inspect your system. It’s also a good idea to change the filter.
Taking care of this now will ensure your house stays toasty during the coldest time of the year.
Keep warm air flowing in winter by changing the direction your ceiling fan spins. During winter, a ceiling fan spinning clockwise at low speed draws and circulates air, promoting mixing. As the warm air rises, it will take advantage of the warmer air near the ceiling.
To change your fan’s spin direction, first check the manual. Most fans have a switch that is on the body of the fan fixture or inside the light globe. If your fan has a remote or wall panel, check for a fan direction button there.
This little trick of running your ceiling fan the right way can also lower your energy bill. If the fan is pushing warm air downwards, you might consider reducing your thermostat setting.
Be sure to dust the blades before turning the fan back on, otherwise changing the direction will leave you covered in dust.
Check your doors and windows for gaps. Weather stripping and caulk can help seal your home from drafts. A drafty room means higher heating bills.
If you plan to use a wood-burning fireplace, make sure you are familiar with how it works and understand the flue and other controls before using it. If you haven’t used it in a few years, it’s a good idea to have your fireplace and chimney inspected too.
Walk around the outside perimeter of your home. Look for cracks in your driveway, patios and foundation. Repair these before it gets cold because freezing water will make any minor problems much worse.
Be sure to disconnect garden hoses and cover the faucets with an insulated cover. Wrap any exposed pipes. Drain bird baths and other water accumulations.
Don't forget about lawn prep. According to loveyourlandscape.org, fall is the prefect time to add mulch to your trees and shrubs.
It isn't just attractive, it actually insulates the roots of your trees and shrubs; helping to keep them warmer and protected from harsh winds and ice and winter's temperature fluctuations. They suggest you have 2 to 3 inches to cover the roots of your plants.
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