ATLANTA — Winter weather can be tough on a home, inside and out. Experts said there are things you can do right now to ensure your home stays winter-ready through the season.
From what you plant to what draperies you hang, Amanda Arnold with Georgia Power said all of these decisions can make a difference in cutting down on costs while keeping your home warm.
"As we continue to face these cold temperatures. These are really the times that it's time to go through your home and see what you can do to really keep the heat and the cold weather out," Arnold explained.
Check for drafts
She said homeowners should check for cracks and areas of the home where there are drafts.
"Go throughout your house and see if there's any weather shipping that you need to do. These are the times to make sure that that is taken care of," Arnold added.
Insulate windows and doors
Some other tips include insulating your windows and doors and servicing your HVAC system regularly.
"These are not just ways to save money, but ways to save energy. You want your home to be as energy efficient as possible," Arnold said.
Clean out gutters
She said homeowners should also consider cleaning out their gutters regularly to prevent ice dams and buying surge protectors to prevent overheating.
Protect HVAC system
Georgia Power said setting your thermostat to 68 degrees and lower when you're not home can also help with the longevity of your HVAC system in keeping your home warm. Arnold also recommended considering planting deciduous trees, which allow for more sunlight to reach your home.