The leaves are falling, the clocks have fallen behind, the low winter sun is on the horizon. It is time to make sure that your home is ready for the punishing temperatures and heating costs ahead. Here is a practical checklist to help you prepare:
Dodge the Draft(s). Make sure that you are not leaking heat under doorways or around windows.
Furnace Maintenance. Have a plumber overhaul your furnace before you turn it on.
Run Fans in Reverse. Some ceiling fans have a reverse switch that will send all that rising hot air back down to you.
Winterize Your A/C. Make sure that window A/C units are put away or sealed tightly, so that they don’t become frozen waterlogged.
Turn Down Your Water Heater. Many boilers are up too high, increasing costs and risk of burns.
Install Storm Doors and Windows Where Possible.
Mind that Thermostat. Check that you are enjoying the warmth when you are home, but turning down the temperature when you don’t need it, for instance when you leave or when you are sleeping.