Keep Your House Warm and Cozy with these Home Heating #Tips #WinterisComing

DISCLAIMER: This is a sponsored post, written by me, on behalf of American Home Shield.

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Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful. With Jack Frost eagerly nipping at your nose, and many weeks of cold weather still left to bear, one might think it's all just a little too much. Never fear! Before you get all stabby, grab a warm, fuzzy blanket and check out these simple and informative home heating tips fromAmerican Home Shield and home improvement expert, David Leon.

When you own a home, you know that things are going to break down – but when it happens, do you know who you’ll call or what you’ll do?  A home warranty is a great way to protect your budget against costly repairs, and save yourself the time and hassle of finding a qualified professional to get major systems and appliances up and running again.

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Check to make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed so heat doesn’t escape.  Inspect caulking and weather stripping around openings for wear and tear, and replace if necessary. This will keep your money from literally slipping right out the window.

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Preventive maintenance will extend the life of your heating system, you should have your heating system serviced every year and check the filters system every month. Also, inspect your system’s exhaust vent for rust, damage, or any corrosion.

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Busted water pipes can cause expensive damage. Take time now to wrap outside pipes that might be exposed to extreme temperatures. Review the locations for the main water and fuel shut-off valves with all members of your household.

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While accidents and incidents will happen, even with the best of planning, they don't have to be a major catastrophe. In 2011, faulty and improperly used heating equipment accounted for nearly 400 deaths nationwide, more than 53,000 fires and $893 million in direct property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Don't become a statistic. To help prevent heating system hazards, be aware of the following critical warning signs when you’re indoors this winter:

• Always be aware of gas odors. If you smell gas around your heating unit, leave the area and call your gas company immediately.
• Be sure your pilot light is burning a steady blue flame. If it is not, call your heating professional or a gas company.
• Take a close look at your exhaust fan for any rust, damage or deterioration. If you notice any, call a qualified professional and describe what you see to determine whether a repair is needed.
• Take extra care with space heaters. They should be plugged directly into a wall outlet, never into an extension cord, and turned off at night. When in use, always be sure space heaters are a safe distance from curtains and other flammable items

Along with these warning signs, American Home Shield, the nation’s leading provider of home protection plans, reminds you to use extra care when operating space heaters. For instance, they should be plugged directly into a wall outlet, never into an extension cord, and always turned off at night. When in use, always be sure space heaters are a safe distance from curtains and other flammable items. American Home Shield has some very informative videos on their Youtube channel, on topics from appliance repair to water saving tips, perfect for people, like me, who haven't got a clue what to do, when it comes to home repair and maintenance. You can also connect with American Home Shield on Twitter for updated info and videos.