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October 2007 – As we finally say goodbye to our summer weather, we must prepare our homes for the cold season to come. Here are some basic guidelines, including eco-friendly tips.
If your furniture is not suitable to withstand the winter elements outdoors, find a safe location for winter storage. The garage is a logical location. Utilize one of many available hook systems to hang your furniture out of the way. Ensure all cushions are packed away from critters who may think they are a warm and friendly nesting ground opportunity. If you do not have a garage, a small garden shed or deck box may fit your needs.
Ensure all garden equipment is also stored away, making room for easy access to snow and ice removal supplies. All outdoor water taps should be drained and turned off at their main controls to remove risk of bursting in cold weather.
A great eco-tip is to mulch your garden waste. All plant remains can be ground into your garden soil to utilize their nutritional benefits in the next gardening year. Fall is also the time of year to dig up any roots that need to remain indoors for winter, collect any annual plant seeds for planting in sprint, i.e. sunflower, and the time to plant bulbs for the new season.
Fall is the best time to groom your grass for next year. Get the biggest ‘bang for your water buck’ by utilizing the spring thaw to allow your grass to feed and grow. Seed and fertilize in late fall, before first snow, and welcome green, full lawns in the spring.
About 30% of your home heating could go out your windows and doors if they are not sealed properly. Check all windows and doors with your hands to feel for drafts. Check for any ripped or compressed seals that need to be replaced. Not only will you be helping with the environment by removing energy waste but you will be putting money in your pocket through energy savings.
“Caulking and weather-stripping can save up to 20% on your
heating bill,” Fall 2007 Eco options Magazine.
Proper operation of your heating systems will ensure getting maximum heat efficiency for your money. Follow your furnace maintenance guidelines for cleaning and service.
If you have an air filtration system added to your furnace, in addition to keeping the filters clean, ensure your furnace specialist checks the furnace fan since it is in full time use for the filter system.
Duct cleaning removes dust and debris from the duct work that your heat passes through to warm your home. If you live in a new home and have not had your ducts cleaned, you may be shocked at what you find in there. Have your ducts swept at least once every 3 years, and certainly before moving into a newly constructed home.
Just a little bit of clean up and organization this fall will prove its worth throughout the winter and into next spring. You have no time to lose. ‘Jack’ is just around the corner!!!
If you have a storage or home maintenance challenge and need ideas to solve them, or if you have a comment about how some of my ideas have worked for you, email me.
Article by Sheri Gammon Dewling
Markham Organizing Maven
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