Winter is a season of change, and whether you’re bracing for freezing temperatures in Maine, cooler evenings in Florida, or fall somewhere in between, preparing your home is essential to ensure your comfort, efficiency and safety. Here we share practical tips for weathering winter’s worst.
Boost Energy Efficiency
Looking to keep energy costs down while maintaining a cozy home? Start here:
· Service your HVAC system. Replace filters and clean heating vents monthly in the winter to make sure your system can operate efficiently. If it’s been more than a year, schedule a tune-up.
· Add insulation. In cooler regions, insulating your attic, basement and walls helps retain heat. Even in Florida, insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures all year.
· Install a programmable or smart thermostat. Adjusting temperatures based on your schedule can save you money without sacrificing comfort.
· Seal gaps and cracks. Inspect doors, windows and walls for drafts. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps, keeping warm air inside and reducing energy costs. We also sell window sealing kits if older windows are posing a challenge.
· Add supplemental heat. Check out our selection of space heaters, or if you have a fireplace, pick up some fire logs to enjoy the cozy warmth of a fire with no fuss or muss.
Protect Your Property
Winter weather, whether snow, ice or heavy rain, can be tough on your property. Prepare accordingly:
· Secure outdoor items. Falling branches from winter storms can cause damage, so be sure to remove them and other debris promptly. Store or secure outdoor furniture, grills and décor to prevent wind-related hazards.
· Stock up on emergency supplies. Power outages can happen anywhere. Keep flashlights, batteries, bottled water and non-perishable food on hand. · Prepare for winter weather. If you live in an area likely to get snow or ice, have winter equipment including shovels, ice melt and snowblowers ready to use. Keep your car storm-ready with an emergency kit, blankets, an ice scraper, shovel and windshield de-icer.
· Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Ideally, you want working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, including the basement and garage, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. You should also have a fire extinguisher on every level in addition to the kitchen and garage.
Winterizing your home is an investment in your comfort and peace of mind. By taking these proactive steps, you can protect your property, reduce energy costs and enjoy the season without worry.
Stop by your local Rocky’s Ace Hardware for everything you need for weathering winter’s worst, from insulation to snowblowers and emergency supplies.
