By completing a quick checklist of to-dos in preparation for winter, you can curl up by the fireplace and not fret about high heating bills. Here’s what to do to prep your home for the chilly part of the year.

Prepare Your Windows
Winterizing your home often starts with the windows. If you’ve been considering purchasing storm windows for your house, now’s a good time to do it. They’ll help keep out cold drafts, keeping you and your family cozy inside. If that’s not in your budget, consider a weatherization kit. You can DIY it by sealing your windows with plastic sheeting.

Inspect Your Ducts
If your ducts are leaky, it makes it harder for your home to remain at a comfortable temperature. As you prepare for winter, get your ducts inspected to be sure everything is properly sealed. And while you’re at it …

Check Your Furnace
It’s a good idea to get on an annual maintenance schedule with your HVAC system. Before DFW gets hit with blasts of cold air, have a professional inspect your furnace to ensure it’s running efficiently and there aren’t any issues.

Keep Your Gutters Clean
It’s important that water can flow freely through your gutters. If not, you risk getting icicles and ice dams when the temperatures dip. The up side? It won’t cost you anything other than your time and a little hands-on work.

Look for Possible Leaks
If you feel a chilly draft near a window or door, it’s likely an air leak. While it’s common, especially in older homes, it’s a problem that needs to be addressed. Inspect your home for gaps or cracks around windows, doors, baseboards, and electrical outlets, and seal them with caulk or weather stripping. Spray-foam is a good solution for larger cracks.

Up Your Insulation
By adding some extra insulation to the walls and attic this winter, you’ll be reducing the cost of your heating bills. While you can insulate the attic on your own, you’re better off calling in a professional to help with other areas. Here’s a list of insulation contractors in Dallas that can help get the job done.

By following a few of these tips, you can keep the heat in and the cold out this winter season.

Winterizing Tips for a Warm & Cozy Home by Audrey Sellers | Coldwell Banker Blue Matter