Winterize your home...YES, even in South Texas

Winter is here, sort of, and it is a good time to go over a few things you can do around your house that will help get you and your wallet through the winter.

1. Stop those drafts: walk around your home and check your windows and doors for drafts.  If you have some drafts, you can go super inexpensive and roll a bath towel and put it against the bottom of the frame.  You can also make your own or purchase them.  Whatever you choose, do something because not only will insects and rodents want to come into your warm home, but you will be losing money out those drafty spaces, too.

2. Ceiling fans: you already cleaned all of them, right? Before you put that ladder away after you've decorated the Christmas tree, take a moment to switch all of your blades to run clockwise (that's what the little switch on the side is for.)  This will push that warm air down and help keep you nice and toasty.

3. Programmable Thermostat: super easy to install and will save you money; studies say the average savings is $180/year.  I checked a local big box hardware store and they run from $20 - $250; so it is up to you how much you'd like to spend.  We spent less than $100 on ours and I love it. It automatically turns up in the mornings and turns down in the late afternoon (or heats according to the season).  When we leave on trips, I can set it to hold on a constant temperature so the unit doesn't run when we are away.

4. Smoke detectors: be sure to change out the batteries of your smoke detectors.  One recommendation is to do this with the time change.  If you didn't do this with the fall time change, take the time to do it now.  You and your family's safety should always come first.

5. Gutters: clean them out.  Before you hang up those Christmas lights, take the time to clean out the gutters. Leaves and acorns can clog them up and cause damage to your gutters and your home.

6. Winterize your air conditioner: at this time of the year, in South Texas, this can be a little more of a challenge because we were using our A/C just last week because the humidity was so high! If you are in an area that sees more freezing temperatures, be sure to drain pipes/hoses that come into the unit and check the drain pan for water. A cover for your unit is recommended, too. These run about $25.

7. Air conditioner filters: be honest, when is the last time you changed them?  During the summer months, every month is recommended.  When your unit isn't used as frequently, every 3 months is good. While you are up there, get the vacuum cleaner out and clean all the dust hanging out on the cover.

Enjoy the season.