Now that the holidays are behind us, many of us will take a small sigh of relief and turn our focus to the indoors as we recharge our batteries and await the warmer seasons that still seem a long way off. This is a great time to turn some of your energy to small, inexpensive, but valuable things you can do around your house. Zoomer Magazine has some great ideas for you to make the most of your time indoors with these winter resolutions for your home.
Check the alarms. Your life may depend on them, so take a few minutes to test your fire alarms, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Change the batteries if needed (they should be changed once a year), and give the devices a vacuum if you notice dust and spider webs. While you’re at it, check the locations and dates on your fire extinguishers too.
Change or replace your furnace filters. Haven’t changed or cleaned your filter in a while? Experts recommend cleaning or replacing filters once a month during the winter to ensure your furnace is running efficiently. Also, give your ventilation system a check every other month.
Install a programmable thermostat. There’s still time to do something about high heating bills. These gadgets are inexpensive (many cost under $100) and will often pay for themselves within a year.
Plug the leaks. The chillier and windier the day, the more the cold will want to move indoors. Now’s the time to “feel” the leaks and drafts that are affecting your home energy costs. If you can’t do something about them now — like weather-strip the windows or put up plastic sheeting — then take notes on what repairs you’ll need to do in the spring.
Watch for unwanted water. While you’re playing home detective, look for frost, ice or condensation — on your windows, in your attic and around vents and fixtures. It could signal air leaks, and warn you of mould or damage that could build up over the months. Any drips or water coming in from outside could become a problem when the spring thaw and rains hit.
Hunt for safety hazards. Loose rugs, squeaky steps, clutter and untamed cords can lead to household accidents. Look for hazards inside and outside your home and do something about them, like securing rugs and keeping your entranceways clear of boots.
Ditch the toxic trash. Got some new electronic gadgets for Christmas, or want to stop living alongside toxic trash? Plan a trip to your local hazardous waste facility to get rid of old electronics, old paint cans, cleaning products, expired medications and batteries.
De-clutter a room. Free up some space and even earn a little cash for your RRSP or TFSA. Designate an area to tackle, whether it’s an entire room, a closet or even a bin, and clear out items you aren’t using.
Lighten up. The right lighting can not only make your home safer, it can add some ambiance too. When the sun sets, look for areas that are poorly lit (especially high-traffic areas and around stairs) and consider installing motion-sensor and emergency lights (a simple night light will also do the trick).
Need a little boost? Consider daylight bulbs or lights that provide a more natural spectrum of light than fluorescent or incandescent bulbs. These bulbs can be pricey, but they can provide better lighting for your favourite hobbies.
Change or add one accessory. A new shower curtain can do wonders for a bathroom, and a well-placed mirror can brighten up a room — but neither requires a major investment of cash. Many home and décor items are on sale this season, so keep an eye on the discounts. If you’re missing Christmas lights, consider a lighting decoration for the window or a dark corner. Look for stars and snowflakes that have a wintery (rather than Christmas) feel, and you can still use them next holiday season.
Tackle a sewing project. It’s the wrong season for a coat of paint, but you can freshen up your décor with a splash of colour. Hit the fabric and craft sales and pick up some material to make an easy project — like cushion covers or a table runner. Watch for printed panels to make a quick wall hanging, or inexpensive fabrics to make a table cloth or new curtains.
Organize the essential stuff. Last — but certainly not least — make it a point to organize your home-related paperwork and bills. Are your receipts and warranties easy to find? Could someone step in and pay your bills if you were indisposed? Do you know — and are you happy with — your level of insurance coverage? Do you have a method for tracking household expenses? Are you paying too much?
Even if you can’t tackle major projects that require ventilation, winter doesn’t have to mean a loss of momentum when it comes to maintaining and updating your home. Make any necessary repairs, update with an accessory or simply make your home a nicer place in which to spend time.
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If you have questions, or want advice on Buying or Selling a home, get in touch with The Bagogloo Team of RE/MAX nova by email at info@halifaxmetrohomes.com or call 902-830-9006.
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