Chill is coming: Are you winterized?
PORTLAND, Ore. - We could see the coldest temperatures of the season later this week and now is as good a time as any to make sure the drop in temperature does not leave you with a sky-high energy bill or busted lines on your recreational vehicles.
Winterize Your Home
- Check all the weather stripping around your doors. If you can feel a draft, you need to do some work.
- Check your windows for drafts as well. Correcting the problem can be as simple as making sure they are locked so they have a tighter seal.
- Even if you don't have kids, put child safety plugs in all your outlets to prevent heat from escaping. Those small leaks can add up.
- Check your fireplace to see if the damper is open. Close it if you're not using the fireplace for heating your home. Of course, if you build a fire make sure to keep the damper open until the fire and all of the embers are completely out.
- Check under your sink. It's important to cover and seal any holes on exterior walls.
- Allow a small drip in your sinks to avoid frozen pipes.
- Put covers on your outside faucets to keep them from the elements.
- Cover foundation vents.
- Keep your garage door closed as much as possible. Just that little bit can help insulate your home from the cold.
Winterize Your RV
- Step-by-Step RV winterizing checklist
- Motorhome Magazine: It's wise to winterize
- Video instructions
Winterize Your Boat
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Video instructions
