As we transition to Fall in Texas, it’s time to start preparing your home or business for the winter months ahead. Here are some tips to make sure you are ready:

Service your heating system – Schedule professional maintenance for your furnace or heat pump to ensure it’s in good working order before cold temperatures arrive. Replace filters and stock up on extras.

Insulate exposed pipes – Wrap exposed outdoor faucets and pipes with insulating sleeves or foam covers to prevent freezing and bursts.

Caulk and weatherstrip – Seal any cracks, gaps, or openings on windows and doors to stop drafts and reduce heat loss. Make sure attic hatches are properly weather-stripped too.

Reverse ceiling fans – Adjust ceiling fans to a clockwise rotation to drive warm air back down into a room.

Prepare your fireplace – Clean out your fireplace and have the chimney professionally swept. Stock up on firewood for cozy nights.

Examine the roof – Check for any damaged or missing shingles that may need replacement to prevent leaks. Trim overhanging branches.

Maintain the grounds – Clean out rain gutters and downspouts. Prune away dead branches. Keep storm drains clear of debris.

Check emergency supplies – Refresh your stock of flashlights, batteries, blankets, canned goods, first aid kit. Get an emergency road kit for cars.

Use energy efficiently – Replace air filters regularly. Set thermostats lower when away. Turn off unused lights. Unplug devices when not in use.

Review your electricity contract – Check your latest bill.  The expiration date of your contract will be located on your bill.  Get a free bill evaluation from energy brokers at Amerigy Energy in Lufkin and Nacogdoches.  877-631-8875 or email a bill copy to [email protected].  They know the best prices in the market from over 50 retail energy providers to get you the best deal.

A little preparation now will pay off when winter arrives in full force. This article was provided by Amerigy Energy.