10 brilliant tips for staying warm and keeping costs down this cold-weather season

<p>It won't be long now until we get our first proper frost. And that means it's time to get our homes ready for the cold snap. </p><p>Wind, rain and snow can do serious damage to houses (as well as racking up grim heating bills). But a little bit of care and attention now can help you save later.</p><p>Whether you live in a house in the country or a flat in the city, here are some easy things you can do to ensure that you're ready for the cold-weather season. </p><h2>Check your outdoor lighting</h2><p>As the days get ever shorter, make sure your home is well lit from the outside. Check that all bulbs are still working, or invest in some new styles to frame your doorway - we've got a selection <a href="https://direct.asda.com/george/outdoor-garden/outdoor-lighting/D33M08G01,default,sc.html" target="_blank">online</a>.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="outdoor-lighting-house-web__square" class="ci-image ci-square" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/outdoor-lighting-house-web__square_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>leave your heating on a timer </h2><p>Going away? Leave your heating on a timer (or on constant low) to prevent your pipes from freezing when things get really chilly.</p><h2>Get your winter essentials</h2><p>You don't want to wait until the first flurry of frost to realise you've misplaced your snow shovel, salt or <a href="https://groceries.asda.com/product/winter-travel-essentials/car-plan-blue-star-de-icer/910000236763" target="_blank">de-icer</a> for the car. Get those winter essentials now!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="deicing_windscreen__square" class="ci-image ci-square" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/deicing_windscreen__square_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>bleed your radiators </h2><p>If your radiators aren't running efficiently, try using a radiator key to release any trapped air. </p><h2>Clean your gutters</h2><p>Gutters that are full of debris can lead to water backing up against the house, which in turn can damage your roof and cause leaks. Make sure your gutters are clear to keep your home warm and dry.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="gutters_filled_with_leaves__square" class="ci-image ci-square" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/gutters_filled_with_leaves__square_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>Get your boiler inspected</h2><p>It can be a good idea to have your boiler serviced by a professional, as a broken one in the middle of winter isn't just costly to fix, but a total pain. Don't forget to check your insurance policy to find out if you're covered for winter emergencies. </p><h2>Inspect trees around your house</h2><p>Check for branches that could break or that are too close to power lines or the roof.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="tree_garden_in_the_snow__square" class="ci-image ci-square" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/tree_garden_in_the_snow__square_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>Get your windows and doors ready</h2><p>Make sure windows and doors are properly insulated to prevent cold air from creeping in. Repair any cracked or broken windows, fix seals and caulking, and check for drafts. </p><h2>Hire a chimney sweep</h2><p>How often you clean your chimney depends on how often you use it. If it's just a weekend or two every year then you may only need to clean your chimney once every three years. However, many professionals recommend getting your chimney cleaned every year so ask an expert to take a look. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="log_fire_chimney__square" class="ci-image ci-square" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/log_fire_chimney__square_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>Check the roof </h2><p>Make sure there are no loose or missing roof tiles or cracks in the walls, that your drains are clear and working and that your TV aerial is firmly fixed.</p><h2>Swap out your bedding</h2><p>Put away those flimsy sheets and bring out cosy bedding - a winter-weight duvet, snuggly throws and comfy cushions. Check out our <a href="https://direct.asda.com/george/home/bedding/D26M04G04,default,sc.html" target="_blank">bedding range</a> online. Want to be extra-snug? Consider investing in an electric blanket &ndash; you can <a href="https://direct.asda.com/george/clothing/10,default,sc.html?q=electric%20blanket" target="_blank">pick up one in store</a>.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="cosy_bed_winter__square" class="ci-image ci-square" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/cosy_bed_winter__square_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>Get your kitchen winter-ready</h2><p>Bring out the slow cooker and stockpile the freezer with hearty dishes like soups and casseroles. Having a fully-stocked kitchen means not having to venture out to the supermarket in the hail or sleet &ndash; win!</p><p><em>Make sure you stock up on everything you need at <a href="http://www.asda.com/" target="_blank">Asda</a> or <a href="https://storelocator.asda.com/#!/" target="_blank">pop into your local store</a>. </em></p>

How to get your home ready for winter

By Asda Good Living,21st November 2017

TAGS

RELATED ARTICLES