Whether you live in the South or the East Coast, there’s no escaping the cold temperatures of winter. For some states, it is harsher and lasts longer, while for others, it is rainy and gloomy. No matter the differences, the steps to stay warm and safe are the same. Here are three ways you can prepare for the winter season:
Improve Your House’s Heating
The last thing anyone wants to do in the middle of a miserable winter is to take a freezing cold shower. So before the first snowfall, it’s important to get your water heater repaired or replaced. Instead of saving money by not getting it fixed, any leak or broken part can actually cost you more.
Another important thing to have during winter is an effective heating system. The Department of Energy recommends the whole-house systems approach. According to their data, it can cut an electricity bill by 30% while reducing emissions. In addition, it also makes less noise and makes a structure sturdier. If you think that you can’t use it for your house, you’ll be happy to know that it can be used for any home design.
Prepare Your Winter Clothes
Have you had your winter coat for years? Has it shrunk or suffered damage? If you answer yes to both questions, it may be time to get a new one. The problem is that if you buy one during the start of winter, it may be pricier than you’d like. Time Magazine recommends buying in January or February to capitalize on the sales.
If your coat and other winter clothes are still good as new, focus on their proper care so that they will last longer. You might think that they don’t need to be washed because they still look clean. But dirt can build up and cause discoloration over time. Although you should be careful of putting it in the washing machine, it might damage the material. Check what kind of fabric your coat or jacket is made of before you wash it.
Gear up Your Car
Winter is one of the worst times to encounter car problems. The chances of getting in an accident are higher because of slippery roads and low visibility. Besides, the weather is cold, so it’s uncomfortable to get stuck on the road. Before the first snow, your car should be in its best shape. Get winter tires, especially if your area experiences harsh winters. They have deeper grooves and patterns, which makes them better for driving on slick roads.
If you want to save money by avoiding buying new tires, you should regularly check your tire pressure. The pressure decreases faster as the temperature lowers, so you’ll need to inflate them more frequently during winter. You should also inspect your battery. You can avoid problems by checking if it has enough water or if it needs to be replaced.
The winter season can be unpredictable. In a single year, it can span from record lows to record highs. The best way to prepare for it is to expect the worst.
