Prep for Colder Weather

The leaves are starting to change colors and fall and there is a crispness in the air. All signs are pointing to the arrival of the cooler weather of fall and that winter is on its heels. The days are growing shorter, and those long cool nights are closing in. I’m not going to lie to you, as much as I adore the hot summer sun; I love the coolness of fall and winter just about as much.

Colder weather reminds me of of high school football games, smores, and bonfires. Before the cold weather arrives, there are some things you may want to do to tighten up around your house to be sure you’re ready for it.

Bedding

I love changing my bedding with the seasons. Your pretty comforter may not only look warm and inviting, but a thick, winter comforter, can wrap you in warmth and peace. You can save on your heating bills by having a comforter that provides true warmth while you sleep. A down comforter will allow you turn that thermostat down a few degrees while you burrow under a soft cloud. If you have stored bedding that you bring out each winter, give it a once over to be sure it’s still in great condition. If it’s lost it’s fluffiness, it may be time to replace it. Select a comforter that is timeless and less trendy so you’ll be able to use it year after year. 

Appliance Tune-Up

The change of seasons is the perfect time to be sure your appliances are tuned up and working correctly. You may want to have your heating checked to be certain it’s going to kick on without problems when the mercury drops. Your return filters need to be changed monthly to assure your system is operating at peak performance. You want your heating unit to be in tip top shape during colder weather.

Speaking of changing filters, one appliance you probably never think about is your clothes dryer. Be aware of your dryer vents. Just cleaning the screen is not enough. You need to periodically clean dryer vents beyond the lint screen. There are tools you can buy at the hardware store that reach beyond the lint screen to capture any clumps of lint that are down inside your dryer on its way to the outside vent. This can become a fire hazard, so don’t neglect this trapped lint inside your dryer.

Structural Integrity

I preach this often, but be sure you are not losing heat from inside your home. Drafty windows and doors are notorious for allowing heat to escape the inside and cold air to seep in from the outside. Caulking around window seals can go such a long way in making your home more energy efficient. Utility bills can be expensive, and you don’t want your heating unit to work overtime to combat the cold air that’s coming in. Weather stripping will seal around entry doors. If you can see daylight around your front door, then cold air is definitely making its way in.

Another area we usually never think about until there’s a problem is your roof. The rainy and snowy weather of winter will often times reveal vulnerable spots in your roof. Water stains on ceilings is a sure sign that you have a leak somewhere. Be sure your gutters are cleaned out and that water can flow freely so no backups can occur. Your roof could have suffered damage from summer storms that your are not aware of. Having a professional survey your roof will alleviate any fears you may have about unknown damage.

Taking preemptive action on areas that could become an issue when the colder weather sets in is the way to go. Don’t wait for problems to arise. You don’t want to be sitting in a frosty house while you’re waiting for a repairman to show up.

It’s so nice to feel like your home is wrapping you in a warm hug on those cold winter days. It’s a special time of year; celebrating Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Hanukah with family and friends. Be sure your home is as ready as you are.