![](\"http:\/\/i.imgur.com\/abNyD.png\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Winter is the time when people often enjoy their homes the most. You are by now probably unpacking the electric blankets and stocking up on firewood. But before you snuggle back under the covers, prepare your home for winter to ensure that your family is comfortable and that you avoid any unnecessary expenses.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Check for fire hazards.<\/strong><\/p>\n Check all your electrical cords, plugs and outlets for possible fire hazards. It is advisable to not have too many plugs at a single connection.<\/p>\n Check your heating system.<\/strong><\/p>\n Some people have heaters and others have an entire heating system that consists of under-floor heating and built-in heaters in the bathroom. Part of your winter checklist should be to go over each part of your heating system. Remember that inefficient heating systems will use more electricity, so it\u2019s worth your while to have them checked out by a professional.<\/p>\n Unclog your gutters.<\/strong><\/p>\n Check the gutters in and around your home to make sure they\u2019re free of leaves and twigs. Not only will leaves clog the gutters, but any moisture or rain might freeze if it\u2019s not able to drain through the gutters. Protect garden tools and hose valves. During the summer months, your garden tools and water valves probably won\u2019t require any protection (except from the sun), but water valves, for example, can freeze and become damaged during the winter months. Your best bet is to disconnect your hoses and store them in your garage during the winter.<\/p>\n