The cold winter is coming. It's time to get your home ready for the harsh, icy conditions that are sure to come! A little maintenance now will save you a lot of money and worry later on in the season when it becomes too difficult to do anything about it. These few steps should help keep your home warm and cozy all winter long!

Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay 

1 Clean your chimney and order firewood

The most significant cause of fire-related deaths in the U.S. is chimney fires, so it's essential to ensure your chimney and flue are clean before winter arrives! To do this, you'll need a brush for sweeping out ashes and other debris from inside the fireplace or stove. A ladder for reaching any high areas that might be inaccessible by hand (such as on top of an appliance). Plus gloves, protective eyewear, work clothes such as old jeans/long sleeve shirt/rubber boots; all tools necessary for cleaning including vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment; bucket filled with water and ammonia solution, recommended at no more than one part liquid to ten parts water (or as per instructions).

 

2 Clean your gutters

Gutters are often neglected until the snow starts to fall. This leaves them filled with rainwater that freezes and expands, causing ice dams in your roof and interior of your home. Gutters should be cleaned at least once per year before winter hits! This will ensure no ice dams or leaks during the cold winter months.

 

3 Check your home's heating and air conditioning system

The next step is to ensure your heating and cooling systems are in good condition. Ensure the system can adequately heat or cool, as needed, by checking that there's enough insulation. Check for any leaks in ducts or pipes leading inside; inspect for clogged vents such as those under sinks if using a range hood venting to the outside instead of being vented into the kitchen ceiling space (which needs more airflow). It shouldn't take long with some essential tools like screwdrivers, pliers, wire cutters/strippers, a roll of electrical tape.

 

In addition, consider insulating exposed pipes near cold areas and baseboard radiators; replace cracked window glass with insulated storm windows or cover them up from the elements completely with plastic or tarp, etc.; insulate the exterior of your home to prevent heat from escaping.

 

4 Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

It's essential to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly. First, test them by pushing the test button, then replace any batteries if they need it – or purchase new ones now, so you're prepared for winter! Plus, don't forget to check that each one is on a different fuse in case of a power outage; many households have alarms on multiple circuits with battery backups which can be installed as well.

 

The last step is prepping for an emergency, such as severe weather warnings or an ice storm coming into your area (which could lead to downed trees/power lines). Ensure supplies like flashlights/batteries, lanterns, matches, and candles are readily available if you lose electricity during these events. Being prepared has, in many instances, proved to be highly effective for individuals all over.