Holding a lit candle near window and door edges is a simple way to spot drafts; a flickering flame means air is getting through. Replacing worn seals, repairing caulk, or switching to heavier drapery closes the gap.
Three Seasonal Home-Maintenance Hints for Cooler Weather
With colder weather closing in, a little seasonal maintenance now keeps the whole house running more smoothly through winter.
Find and Seal Hidden Drafts
Use a Programmable Thermostat Wisely
Setting a programmable thermostat to automatically lower the temperature at night (when blankets are doing the work anyway) and while away from home adds up to real savings over the season.
Keep the Humidifier Clean
Bone-dry winter air is rough on both health and fine wood furniture, so a humidifier is worth keeping in good shape. Inspecting the plates or pads and cleaning them in a strong laundry detergent solution, then scraping off mineral deposits with a wire brush or steel wool, keeps it running well.
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This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive: 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →