• Seal Leaks: Inspect windows and doors for drafts. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any gaps. This is one of the most cost-effective ways to lower your energy bills.
• Check Insulation: Ensure that your attic and walls have adequate insulation. Insufficient insulation can lead to significant heat loss and even cause ice dams on your roof, which can damage your home.
• Protect Your Pipes: Disconnect and drain garden hoses and turn off the water to exterior spigots. Insulate any pipes that are in unheated spaces, like a basement or against an outside wall, to prevent freezing and bursting.
3. The Roof and Chimney: Looking Up for Safety
Don’ t overlook the top of your house. It bears the brunt of winter’ s wrath.
• Clear the Gutters: Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams and water damage.
• Trim Trees: Prune any branches that hang over your house or car. Heavy snow or ice can cause them to break, and possibly cause damage.
• Chimney Sweep: Have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned. Creosote buildup is a fire hazard, and a clean chimney ensures proper ventilation.
4. Prepare for the Unexpected: The Emergency Kit
Winter storms can knock out power for extended periods. Be prepared with a well-stocked emergency kit.
• Essentials: Gather non-perishable food, bottled water, a manual can opener, flashlights with extra batteries, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
• Safety First: Keep a fire extinguisher and a working carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home. If you use a portable generator, never operate it indoors or in an attached garage.
YOUR CO-PILOT: GETTING YOUR CAR ROAD-READY
Winter driving is a whole different ballgame. Sleet, snow, and icy roads require your vehicle to be in peak condition.
1. Under the Hood: The Inner Workings
• Test the Battery: Cold temperatures are tough on car batteries. Have your battery tested by a mechanic, especially if it’ s over 4 years old. A weak battery may not have the power to start your car in freezing weather.
• Check Fluids: Antifreeze / Coolant— Make sure your coolant is at the proper level and has the right water-to-antifreeze ratio to prevent your engine from freezing; Windshield Wiper Fluid— Replace your fluid with a winter-specific mixture that contains de-icer. Keep a spare bottle in your car.
• Inspect Belts and Hoses: Check for any signs of wear, such as cracks or frays. Cold weather can make rubber brittle, leading to a potential breakdown.
2. The Tire Check: Your Only Contact with the Road
• Tread Depth: Use the penny test to check your tire tread. Insert a penny with Lincoln’ s head upside down into a tire groove. If you can see all of Lincoln’ s head, your tires are worn and need to be replaced.
• Tire Pressure: Tire pressure drops as the temperature falls. Check your tires monthly and inflate them to the recommended pressure found in your owner’ s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’ s side door jamb.
• Winter Tires: If you live in an area with heavy snow and ice, consider investing in a set of winter tires. They are designed with special rubber compounds and tread patterns to
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