Prepare for Winter Before It Arrives

Even though we are still enjoying warm weather and winter seems far away, now is a great time to begin preparing. If you do a bit at a time before winter hits the tasks are not at all overwhelming.

So often, people wait until the last minute to take care of necessary duties. Worst yet, some people wait until snow or rain is pouring down to even begin thinking of what needs to be done.

Safety should be a top priority. Assess the quality of your indoor air. You can easily create an indoor health hazard with poor quality air. If you have excessive dust or dirt, take steps to clean it up.

Make sure your smoke detectors are in good working order. They can literally save your life. If you don't have detectors throughout your home, you need to make that a top priority on your "honey do" list. Better yet, don't wait for someone else to take care of this most important task, do it yourself as soon as possible.

Have your fireplace inspected to insure it is safe to use. If your area permits you to burn during the winter, stock up on wood while the weather is pleasant.

Secure vents, fans and air conditioners. Properly cover as recommended by the manufacturer.

Remember to check both the inside and out. Make a list of any repairs as you go through the house. To help you determine where any leaks are, on the next windy day do a walk through to determine areas in need of repair.

• Fix Doors and Windows

• Replace or add weather-stripping where needed.

• Winterize basement windows.

• Replace old windows with weather efficient windows.

• Have your furnace serviced before the winter rush hits. Many companies run specials before the season.

• Check for mold and algae within your home furnace. You'd be amazed at what can grow during the summer months. Although mold burns off it is distributed throughout your home.

• Stock up on furnace filters. It is better to have some on hand so you can easily replace throughout the winter.

• Use caulking to fix any leaky areas.

Locate all you winter supplies such as walkway shovel, ice melt, gloves, hats, scarves and anything else you will need when a storm hits. If you don't have these items buy them before a winter storm hits and stores run out. Make sure your snowplow is in good working order. A preseason equipment check up is advisable.

By being prepared you will be able to share more time with your loved ones. Besides, you will probably be able to save on your energy bills as well.

Copyright: © 2004 by Darlene Dipos

Publishing Guidelines: You may publish my article in your newsletter, on your web site, or in your print publication provided you include the resource box at the end. Notification would be appreciated but is not required.

About The Author

Darlene Dipo is a member of the Distinctive Properties team, a unique personalized real estate agency serving the south end of the Salt Lake valley including Draper, Riverton and Sandy. The Distinctive Properties team offers a "boutique" experience and a personal relationship with each person they work with. Distinctive Properties offers relocation services throughout the United States. Visit www.distinctivepropertiesSLC.com for further information.

dipo@aros.net

---

I Need What Part?

One of the first things you learn as a homeowner... Read More

Outdoor Kitchens ? Simple and Sophisticated

After September 11, many of us decided to stay closer... Read More

Replacing Steel Casement Windows (Part 2)

Last week, I explained how to remove your old steel... Read More

Measure Your Window for Verticals and Horizontal blinds, Wood blinds, Faux Wood Plantation Shutters

Here are five important things to remember.1. Use a steel... Read More

New Jersey Home Remodeling

The U.S. state of New Jersey lies on the Eastern... Read More

Consumer Guides: Finding A Quality Contractor and Power Washing Tips

Power washing is the application of high pressure water spray.... Read More

How To Buy A Conservatory In The UK

The first question is, what is a conservatory?There is no... Read More

Eclectic Patio Furniture Shows Your Style

Your home's interior is exquisitely decorated in your favorite style;... Read More

The Mighty Dust Mite and How To Deal With It

A Closer Examination of the Dust MiteThe dust mite's mouth... Read More

3 Great Reasons to Shop for Home Lighting Online

If you are a consumer who knows just what brand... Read More

How To Identify A Quality Interior Shutter

1. Shutters have proper louver tensionThe shutters louvers should be... Read More

Got Attic Mold? Lets Talk Energy Conservation!

It happens to countless homeowners around the end of the... Read More

Architect or Building Designer ? Who Do You Choose?

Thinking of building a new home or complex? Will you... Read More

Repairing a Hole in a Sheetrocked Wall

It is quite simple to repair a hole in a... Read More

Color Help: Many Factors Affect Color Preference

Understanding color psychology helps home makers choose colors for home... Read More

So You?ve Put an Offer on a Home. What?s Next?

You've finally found the home of your dreams, 3 bedrooms,... Read More

How To Clean Your Air Conditioner Like A Pro

Jack Frost is nipping at our nose and Santa Clause... Read More

Seven Energy Conservation Tips to Help Homeowners Save Money

In an effort to help consumers in the Atlanta area... Read More

Kitchen Design Online ? Understanding the Work Triangle and Kitchen Layouts

Good kitchen design online means having a layout for your... Read More

How To Choose House Style Mailboxes

Your mailbox is not simply a receptacle for your mail;... Read More

Adjustable Bed - Start Each Day on the Right Note

Your daily beauty sleep will not be complete if any... Read More

Scented Candles ? Take Me AWAY!

Remember the old Calgon commercial-"Take me away Calgon!" There's only... Read More

How to Collect Physical Mold Growth Samples for Low-Cost Mold Laboratory Identification of Mold Spec

How to Collect Physical Mold Growth Samples for Low-Cost Mold... Read More

Home Automation Enhances Your Lifestyle and Saves Money - Exciting Home Automation Applications

Wouldn't it be nice to have your home take care... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Trees and How They Can Affect Development when Applying for Planning

Like most folk, I believe that more can be achieved... Read More

About Lighting Your Home

Lighting is such a critical part of any home improvement... Read More

Save Money On Home Improvement Projects

Many of us avoid home improvement projects due to their... Read More

Maintaining Your Hot Tub

Purchasing a hot tub is a big investment and one... Read More

Bedding is Fashion for the Bed

Ladies, we spend a lot of time in the morning... Read More

Why Laminate Flooring is the Perfect Choice for Families

If you've ever had carpets or vinyl flooring you've probably... Read More

How to Keep Your Tools Useful for Every Season

You don't want to keep your useless tools in your... Read More

Ways to Heat Your Water

Water heating optionsWhere you live, as well as the life... Read More

House Plans ? Where To Start

You have found the perfect lot on which to build... Read More