SAVE yourself time and money this winter by taking care of expert-recommended home tasks ahead of the holiday season.
According to the pros, these are the chores you must do in November to keep your family warm, safe, and stress-free til spring.
The to-do list comes from the home experts at Bob Vila, who suggested taking care of business before a cold snap makes these vital chores more difficult.
Start with a chore that can make your life easier all winter long: preparing your pipes for freezing temperatures.
“To protect your pipes, first ensure that your walls are adequately insulated,” the experts said. That should be enough to keep the pipes within your walls from freezing.
If it’s outdoor pipes you’re worried about, consider investing in heating tape, which should only be used on exterior plumbing.
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“Heating tape can be plugged into an outlet, which will heat the water in your pipes to prevent freezing and bursting,” the experts said.
Keep it away from pipes inside your walls, floors, or ceilings, since it could cause a fire.
Remember that insulation mentioned before? If you make an appointment to protect your pipes, the pros at Bob Vila recommend taking a look at your attic, too.
“Without proper insulation, up to 25 percent of the heat you pump into your home will escape through the roof,” they explained.
A professional can help you choose which insulation is right for your home’s needs.
Third on the list is installing a smart thermostat, which can lower the temperature automatically when you’re not home.
Program the thermostat based on your family’s schedule to save money while staying comfortable in chilly months.
Several of the expert tips look toward the winter holidays and family gatherings, including one crucial safety step you should take as soon as possible.
“More cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving than on any other day of the year,” the experts warned.
If there’s not already a fire extinguisher in your kitchen, add one ahead of turkey day. Make sure houseguests and residents know where to find it.
“Also check the pressure of existing fire extinguishers, and replace any old or damaged units,” the experts suggested.
If you’re hosting during the holidays, now is the time to make those tweaks to the guest bedroom.
“A fresh coat of paint or new bedding can make the space more inviting and won’t break the bank,” they said.
It’s also time to invest in a futon so Great Aunt Myrtle doesn’t take the “good” bed and leave you aching on an air mattress.
And while it may seem premature, right after Halloween is the best moment to hang your holiday lights.
“As far as we are concerned, one of the best reasons for hanging lights in November is that the (slightly) warmer weather makes the job more comfortable,” the experts wrote.
Plus, avoid disappointment on Christmas eve by inspecting your holiday lights ahead of time.
Take advantage of the slightly-longer November days to spot-check your strings and cords for broken bulbs and frayed cables.
