It’s time to think about winterizing your house, no matter whether you’ll be there all winter or plan to be away for an extended period. The tasks aren’t overwhelming when you prepare for winter one step at a time, and if you plan to be home, you’ll be glad you did, because the steps you take will protect your property and save you dollars in heating costs.

Seal Leaks around Doors and Windows

•      Add or replace worn weather-stripping around doors and windows.

•      Caulk gaps where necessary.

•      Replace worn door stops at the bottom of doors.

•      If you have them, install storm doors and windows. Don’t forget to winterize basement windows.

•      Replace old windows with energy efficient windows.

Seal Other Leaks

•      Use caulking and weather-stripping around entry points for all pipes and ducts that travel through an exterior wall.

•      Install insulating kits behind electrical plugs that are on a wall with an exterior side.

Is the Insulation Adequate?

Proper attic insulation keeps your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Local experts at Circle T Ace Hardware recommend an “R” factor of at least 30 for your attic insulation.

Some homes benefit from additional wall insulation. Home improvement center staff will explain types of insulation that can be added to existing walls.

Heating System Checks

•       Have a heating professional do a routine-check before cold weather arrives.

•       Vacuum the vents and other heating components.

•       If it has one, replace the furnace filter. Make future replacements as needed or directed by your furnace manufacturer.

•       Consider installing a setback thermostat. It regulates the temperature, allowing the home to be cooler when you are away or asleep.

•       Fill oil or propane tanks.

Check the Fireplace

•      Have the chimney inspected and cleaned.

•      Close the fireplace damper when not in use.

Check the Roof

•      Make sure the flashing around the chimney or vent pipes is watertight.

•      Check the bricks and mortar.

•      Install a screen at the top of the chimney to keep leaves and other items out.

•      Clean drain gutters and point downspouts away from the house.

•      Trim tree limbs that are hanging over or touching the roof.

Winterize the Plumbing

•      Take care of known issues with pipes that freeze. Heat tape can be used to keep them warm during extremely cold weather.

•      Learn how to turn off water at its source so that you can stop leaks immediately if they start.

•      Drain water from outdoor faucets when you think a hard freeze is coming.

Winterizing Outdoor Items

•      Give decks an additional coat of sealer.

•      Check the foundation and siding for cracks or gaps. Repair as necessary.

•      Drain garden hoses, roll them up, and store them inside.

•      Prune shrubbery and add mulch to perennial flower beds.

•      Cover outdoor furniture or store it inside.

Collect Emergency Supplies

•      Candles and matches or a small butane lighter.

•      Flashlight and batteries.

•      Fill propane tank or buy charcoal for outdoor grills.

•      Battery operated radio or weather radio. Buy extra batteries.

•      Snow blower, shovels, and/or chemicals to melt snow.

•      Containers of bottled water. Non-perishable food to last a few days. Be sure you have a hand operated can opener.

•      Paper plates and plastic eating utensils. Paper towels.

•      Extra firewood. Fuel for your generator. Kerosene and kerosene heater (use with carbon monoxide monitoring strips).

If you’re new to town, ask your neighbors how they prepare for winter.