Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! They say good things come in threes, so here are three ideas to help you get your home ready for a cozy holiday.
Control interior temps
- Ceiling fans—Set fans to spin clockwise in winter to create an updraft and circulate warm air around the room.
- Windows and doors—Caulk gaps around loose window panes, add foam weather stripping to window frames and doors.
- Programmable thermostat—Set the temperature to drop at bedtime and come up before you wake, and save money all winter.
Maintain your furnace
- Furnace humidifier—Add moisture to your air; moist air holds heat better than dry air, so you stay warmer without bumping the thermostat.
- Tune-up and maintenance—Schedule a service call and put an annual maintenance reminder on your calendar.
- Filter—Write the date on an edge of your new filter and replace every few months, more often in dusty conditions.
Prepare your yard
- Patios—Clear patios and walkways to avoid trip-and-slip hazards for guests, store or cover outdoor furniture to keep it looking good for next year.
- Trees—Prune branches closest to the house to prevent damage to gutters, roofs and siding.
- Roofs—Install roof heating cables to prevent dangerous ice dam build-up over doors and walkways.
If you need recommendations for local pros to help with your winterization projects, just call.