Winterizing your home on a budget

• Clean your gutters: Make sure water can flow freely through your gutters to avoid icicles and ice dams.
• Change your ceiling fans clockwise to force hot air at the ceiling towards the floor.
• Replacing the filters in your forced heating unit improves the efficiency of your unit.
• Window insulation film can help keep heat from escaping out your windows.
• Placing a rolled towel at the bottom of your exterior door or a draft guard prevents heat from leaking out.
• To prevent damage, it is just as important to winterize your vacant home. Turning your water off, unplug appliances such as microwaves and toasters to prevent faulty switches.
• Inspect your home for any openings where animals could use to get inside. Make sure your fireplace flue or damper is closed, as bats, birds and squirrels are known to get inside this way.
•  It is wise to communicate with a trusted  friend or neighbor that your will be gone for a prolonged period of time and they have your contact information. Taking these steps can help protect your home from theft, water damage, and heating or electrical system issues while you are away for an extended period of time. Bundle the house up tight!!