5 Home Maintenance Projects to tackle this Winter

 As the weather gets colder and we start spending more time indoors, it's the perfect opportunity to tackle some home maintenance projects that we might not have had time for during the warmer months. Here are 5 home maintenance projects that are perfect to do this winter:

1. Clean or replace your furnace filter

A dirty furnace filter can make your furnace work harder than it needs to, which wastes energy and can raise your heating bills. Replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can help improve your furnace's efficiency and prolong its lifespan. Most furnace filters should be replaced every 3 months, but you may need to do it more often if you have pets or live in a dusty area.

2. Check your fireplace and chimney for any needed repairs

Whether you use your fireplace regularly or not, it's important to have it checked by a professional every few years to make sure it's in good working condition. Having a professional inspect your fireplace and chimney can help prevent a fire from starting in your home.

3. Bleed your radiators to get rid of any air pockets

If you have hot water radiators in your home, it's important to bleed them regularly to get rid of any air pockets that may have formed inside the radiator. Failing to do so can cause the radiator to work less efficiently and could even damage it. You'll know it's time to bleed your radiator when you hear banging or hissing coming from it when it's turned on.

4. Inspect your windows and doors for any drafts

Drafty windows and doors can let heat escape from your home, which wastes energy and raises your heating bills. To prevent heat loss, check all of the windows and doors in your home for drafts and seal any that you find with caulking or weatherstripping.

5. Drain and clean your outdoor faucets to prevent them from freezing over

This is one project that's often overlooked but can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the road. Draining and cleaning your outdoor faucets helps prevent them from freezing over in cold weather, which can cause extensive damage to the pipes leading to them. 

By taking the time to do some simple home maintenance projects this winter, you can avoid larger problems down the road while also saving money on things like energy bills and repairs. So put on some comfy clothes, crank up the heat, and get started on tackling these winter home maintenance projects!