Household Hints & HELP!

WINTERIZING YOUR HOME

submitted by Lorene Bartos, Extension Educator
This article appeared in the November 16, 2003 Lincoln Journal Star Newspaper.

Is your home ready for winter? It’s time to make a check of your home to make sure everything is in order for the cold wintery weather.

First of all check around the outside of the home. Make sure the following things are in order.

* Gutters are cleaned and repaired, if needed.
* Hoses are drained and put away.
* Leaves and trash from flowerbeds are removed.
* Replace screens with storm windows, if necessary.
* Cover the air conditioner.
* Put patio furniture in a protected area.

Next be sure your equipment for snow removal is available. Check your snow blower—make sure it is working. Put snow shovels in an easy to get to place. If you need to replace shovels or scrapers now is the time to do it.

After the outside area is taken care of check the inside of your home. Make sure there are no leaks around windows and doors. Caulk or use weather stripping to repair any problems.

Be sure your furnace is in good working order. Most homes have probably been using heat already this fall. If you use a fireplace or wood burning stove check them also.

With the prediction of higher heating bills this winter take precautions to reduce energy use. Think about dressing warmer and keeping the temperature set lower. Open drapes to let in warm sunlight and close them in the evening to keep out the cold.

Winterizing the home is important. It will save time and money and increase the longevity of your home.

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