Minnesota Winter Checklist

Owning a home in Minnesota brings the beauty of experiencing every season to it fullest.

It is winter here in Minnesota, which means we have to do a few extra "checks" around the house to ensure we are good to go for the rest of winter.

In October or November, you should have completed the fireplace and HVAC cleaning. Now that winter is here, and you are using your heat and fireplace, we have a few other areas of the home we should look at, too!

Windows and doors should be checked for any cold air sliding through or for cracks to determine which ones need to be replaced.

If your windows are older or lack insulating properties, it may be a good idea to make note to replace it with a newer and more energy efficient one. Single-pane glass windows may be replaced with double or triple-paned versions. This will help to lower the cost of heating your home by reducing heat loss.

TIP: If getting new windows is not in the forsight, putting that handy plastic covering to keep the cold out will do temporarily for the winter season.  All in all, we like to save money, and this will help keep the energy bill down.

Shovel the snow away from the house - snow likes to build up, and when it melts and refreezes, it expands - causing tension around the base of the home and sidewalk or driveway. Ensure a clear path around the base of your house to help prevent any issues.

Replace the furnace filter - if you followed our tips January to December, you know in January we tell you to buy enough filters for the whole year for easy swapping. Now that December is here, you are probably using your last filter - so when you replace it this month, add to your shopping list buy new filters!

Check the Carbon and Smoke Detectors - we say it every month, and we will keep reminding you because it is that important.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that consumers test their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every month to ensure they are properly working. Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of the home, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. If you do not have a carbon monoxide detector, be sure to get one. These should also be installed on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas.