Here are some key preventative measures to take now to protect your home this winter and ideas to cut heating costs.

Roof and Drainage:

• Clean and remove debris from gutters.
• Make sure your roof’s drainpipes are pointed away from the house.

Plumbing:

• Wrap exposed pipes and plumbing with insulation.
• Keep valves and taps open to prevent water from staying and freezing in pipes.
• Even if not at home, keep home’s temperature warm enough to prevent freezing.
• When temperatures dip below freezing, keep water dripping in sinks and faucets.
• Keep cabinets open in bathrooms and kitchens in order to heat up cold pipes.

Heating:

• Seal the gaps in windows and doors.
• Check and maintain your insulation.
• Tune-up your heating system.
• Install a programmable thermostat.
• Replace old doors and windows.
• Inspect and clean your fireplace.

Electric:

• Test your fire and carbon monoxide detectors when you change your clocks in the fall and spring.
• Don’t overload electrical outlets and use proper extension cords.
• Follow dryer safety recommendations.
  • Empty lint filter before putting anything in the dryer.
  • Clear out vent pipe at least once every three months.
  • Never run the dryer while asleep or away from home.

Walkways and Driveways:

• Keep walkways and driveways well lit and clear of ice.