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Winter’s not just tough on us; it’s tough on our homes. And while we’re busy stocking up on vitamin C, layering up, and dodging the flu, our homes could use a little love, too. A healthy home keeps the sniffles at bay, boosts coziness, and spares you from surprise expenses. So here’s the lowdown on keeping your home happy, healthy, and snug all winter long.

1. Show Your HVAC Some TLC

If you want to have a healthy home this winter, then you need to have a warm home, and a warm home starts with a healthy HVACV system, so before winter gets into full swing, you are probably going to want to arrange a full HVAC service, just to ensure that it is firing on all cylinders, and so you won’t end up waking up in a home that feels more like an icebox.

Of course, a fully functioning HVAC will also help to keep the air in your home clean too, which means your house will be healthier on two fronts if you take good care of it.

2. Humidifiers are Your Skin’s New Best Friend

Winter air is often really dry, and that is bad news for your skin which will often become dry and cracked when exposed to dry air over long periods of time. The good news is, you can mitigate many of the effects of winter air by investing in a good humidifier. This will add lots of moisture back into the air, which will not only do wonders for your skin but also stop your wooden furniture and flooring from drying out too.

3. Seal Up Drafts Like You Mean It

Every home has sneaky little gaps where cold air loves to creep in, usually by windows and doors. Seal them up to keep your home cozy and your heating bill manageable. Weather stripping, caulk, or even a strategically placed blanket at the base of a door can make a big difference.

And don’t just stop with doors and windows – check around pipes, vents, and any other spots where the cold might be worming its way inside. Every draft you block is a dollar saved and a shiver avoided.

4. Rotate Your Ceiling Fans

Yes, ceiling fans have a winter mode! Flip the switch so they run clockwise, which pushes warm air down from the ceiling. It’s a super simple trick that redistributes heat and keeps your living space warmer. So don’t let your fan just hang out looking pretty – put it to work and enjoy a warmer, healthier home.

5. Keep the Floors Cozy

Cold floors are like winter’s little “gotcha!” moment – one minute you’re fine, the next you’re shivering from your toes up. Adding rugs, especially in high-traffic areas, can trap heat and keep your home feeling warm and snug. And besides, a few thick, fluffy rugs are just an invitation to kick off your shoes and relax.

6. Air It Out (Yes, Even in Winter)

It might sound odd, but even in winter, your home needs fresh air. Stale air can lead to a buildup of germs, allergens, and that general “lived-in” smell. Open a window for a few minutes each day to circulate some fresh air and keep things feeling crisp and clean. Your HVAC system will thank you, and so will your lungs.

Here’s to a healthy winter home!