HOW TO WINTERPROOF YOUR HOME AND SAVE MONEY

With winter in full swing, we need to embrace it with open arms! We've provided a few practical ways you can adjust your home for winter and save money in the long run.

Shorter days and longer nights, chilly mornings and evenings - these are the signs that winter is here to stay. No matter where in the country you live, whether you will be facing days of rain or dry icy spells, now's the time to assess your home to make sure that you've done everything you can to minimise the effects that seasonal change could have on your property. Make a few smart adjustments now and you'll retain the value of your home and save yourself money in the long run.

Home checks

• As soon as temperatures drop, there is the possibility that water in the water pipes can freeze. Check that your water pipes and geyser have been insulated with special insulation material as it can help save on your monthly electric bill.
• Your roof goes through a lot in a year, especially due to varying temperatures causing it to expand and contract. If you have a metal panel roof, consider getting an insulation product.
• Keep gutters clear of debris so they can effectively remove water from the roof.
• Before lighting that first cosy winter fire, have chimneys and furnaces maintained to ensure they are free of debris.
• Check for weak, low-hanging branches. Gale force winds can cause these to break, which could cause damage to your building's exterior.
• Strong winds from a winter storm can rip off loose tiles, so be sure all roof tiles are securely fastened.
• Be pool smart: Use a pool cover to limit water loss and keep filtering to once every 24 hours during winter. This could greatly save on the energy necessary to run your pool pump.

Electrical checks