5 Tips for Winterizing Your Home

When the weather outside is frightful, you'll probably want nothing more than to settle into your delightfully cozy and warm home.

But whether you have central or radiated heat, a working fireplace or a campfire screensaver, there are a few things you can do when winterizing your home to make your abode delightful and toasty this winter.

Fix Those Filters

If you have a furnace or any other heating mechanism with filters, now is the time to make sure they're clean and free of debris. Experts recommend replacing disposable furnace filters or washing the permanent types at least once a month in winter. Doing so will help keep your air cleaner and your heating system more efficient.

No Skipping Weather Stripping

The Department of Energy estimates that the average household could be losing $200 to $400 a year due to unchecked drafts. So, grab the weather stripping and sealant, and attack any wayward winter breezes around exterior doors, windows and anywhere pipes or wires enter or exit. On the inside, you can use "door snakes" to stop drafts between rooms, and be sure to close off spaces that aren't in use regularly.

Flip The Fans

When it comes to ceiling fans, there's a big difference between clockwise and counterclockwise. In winter, ceiling fans should be switched to run clockwise with the lower edge of each blade leading the way. This helps push warm, heated air that's risen to the ceiling back down to your level. You'll find a direction switch on the motor housing, but be careful up on that ladder. And, of course, make sure the fan is off first.

Be Thorough with the Thermostat

When you're home, set your thermostat as low as is comfortable, but consider nudging that temp way, way down when you're at work or asleep. Dialing it down 10 or 15 degrees could save you up to 10 percent on your annual heating costs, making an extra sweater or blanket a pretty wise investment.

Fire up the Fireplace

Few things are as cozy as a warm fireplace, but they also require quite a bit of upkeep and attention to operate at their optimal heating capacity. First, make sure your chimney is clear and clean and that the flue is open before lighting a fire. Open dampers in the firebox or a nearby window slightly to reduce heat loss, and consider purchasing tubular wood grate that helps circulate cool air into the fire while expelling warm air. Lastly, adjust your thermostat or heating system down while the fire is burning.

If you're ready to embrace the winter outdoors, we've got a list of winter activities in and around NYC for you!