Our homes always want our attention and our money. The best way to save money around the home is to stay on top of your maintenance list. Here are some things to do to prepare for winter and some of the tips will save you money.

1.    Clean the gutters and downspouts. Check how the dirt or landscaping relates to the exterior of your home – dirt or landscaping should “push” snow or water away from the house.

2.    Seal cracks in cement surfaces to prevent cracks from holding water – freezing and making the cracks bigger.

3.    Check for water leaks around the hot water heater, drains and inside faucets.

4.    Change the batteries in your smoke detector and your carbon monoxide detectors. If you don’t have them, time to buy them. At least one carbon monoxide detector on each level and in the master bedroom. Several smoke detectors on each level.

5.    Seal tile grout joints.

6.    Inspect the caulk joint from shower tiles to shower pan or to the tub.

7.    Test all ground fault circuit interrupter outlets in the kitchen, bathroom, garages and exteriors. Just push the test button and then reset the outlet by pushing the reset button.

8.    Vacuum your refrigerator coils.

9.    Check the attic for leaks or other repairs.

10.Use binoculars to inspect roof flashing, notice any cracking in the tar flashing? Time to have it fixed.

11. Is it time to clean your chimney? Do you have a fire extinguisher in case of fires? If so, make sure everyone knows where it is and how to use it.

12.Trim bushes and trees that over hang your home or are too close to the house.

13.Winterize your home. Caulk around the exterior of each window, door and where siding touches another material. Caulk around all exterior wires or pipes entering the home. Install door sweeps to the bottom of your exterior doors. Install weather stripping to all exterior doors. Check your attic for insulation and ventilation. If you have single pane windows consider using an interior window plastic insulating kit. If you have storm windows now is the time to remove the screens and install the storm windows. Install a programmable thermostat and if you already have one make sure it’s programmed for heat and not ac temperatures and times.

14.If you live in a cold climate, turn off the water to your sprinkler system and exterior water hydrants. Blow out your sprinkler system; install covers on all exterior water hydrants. Drain your hoses and store them away for winter.

15. Service your furnace – a well maintained furnace is an efficient furnace. Change furnace filter. Have the technician check your flue to ensure birds and squirrels aren’t living in them.

16. If you have ceiling fans, reverse the fan directions to help push hot air down making the room feel more comfortable and warm.

17. Check your outside lights, make sure they are weather tight and the bulbs are in good condition. Did you know exterior lights prevent break ins? It’s true so use those lights and stay safe.

18. Stock up on exterior snow melt – if you have pets make sure you purchase pet friendly snow melt, service your snow blower and buy a shovel that fits you and is easy on your back.

19. Is your winter emergency kit up to date with everything your family needs? Batteries, medicines for you and or your pets? Food, clothes and other items in the event you loose power? Need suggestions? http://tinyurl.com/2b5g6ev