Prep Your Home for Winter

Winter is upon us – here are a few pointers to make sure you and your home are ready for the colder months ahead.

1. Inspect and replace any damaged weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows. We all want to keep the warm air in and the cold air out! Be sure to also inspect all vents, plumbing, electrical and gas lines, and all other penetrations for leaks or drafts. Don’t forget to check the attic. Majority of heat loss occurs in the attic.

2. Prune any trees that are near your home. Snow and ice will weigh down the branches and could cause them to break and damage your home, roof or gutters.

3. Install a smart thermostat. We live in the age of technology! Not only is it a great convenience to be able to monitor your thermostat while away, it will also save you a good chunk of change on energy costs.

4. Switch your fan blade rotation in winter to move clockwise. This will help pull cooler air towards the ceiling and push warmer air down. This will allow you to turn your thermostat temperature down one or two degrees.

5. When your fireplace is not in use, keep the flue closed to keep the hot air in.

6. When your fireplace is not in use, keep the flue closed to keep the hot air in.

7. Replace your furnace filter and do a test run to ensure the system is running properly.