Roof? Check. Windows? Check? Furnace? Check.

When it comes to winter chores, there's no time for procrastination. Mother Nature waits for no one. When winter comes knocking, simple tasks can become far more complicated.

"We've seen a lot of people coming in for insulation or thermostats," said Ben Lister, manager of the Home Depot in West Sacramento. "Or they're getting energy-efficient windows, upgrading to keep the heat in and also taking advantage of tax rebates (which expire Dec. 31)."

As we try to squeeze in one last shopping trip or send one more greeting, don't forget that warmth and some simple safety tips help assure a happier home for the holidays – and beyond.

Preventive maintenance can lower heating costs.

First, stop the air leaks.

"You'd be amazed," Lister said. "If you combined all the little gaps and cracks around your house, it would add up to a 9-square-foot hole."

Weatherstrip around doors, caulk around windows and spray gap-filler everywhere else; that will block those leaks.

Not sure where to start? "Try the tissue test," he said. "Take a tissue and place it around doors and windows. If the tissue moves, there's a leak – and lost energy.

"It's super easy," Lister said. "You can seal up all those gaps and cracks, save money and stay warm."

Saving energy is high on consumers' winter checklists.

"We've definitely seen much more awareness," Lister said. "Before buying products, consumers want to know how it's going to benefit their home – not just today, but years to come."

To save energy now, change the air filters of your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

"Change your air filters every three months and you'll save $100 a year," Lister said.

If your furnace has a musty smell, it may be time for a tune-up. That scent can signal other issues that may be resolved with simple fixes now.

These two winter warmers cost nothing:

• Open drapes and let sunshine take the chill off rooms. (But remember to close them again after dark.)

• Reverse the direction of ceiling fans so warm air is pushed down into the room. (On most models, that's clockwise.)

Water, water everywhere

"A little drip can cause enormous damage," he said. "You don't want to wait."

Windows may also show condensation, a buildup of moisture.

"We often get calls from homeowners who are concerned that their windows are 'sweating' or leaking either inside or outside the home because they see moisture on the glass," said Christopher Burk of Simonton Windows. "In reality, that's simply not the case. While condensation may collect on the interior or exterior of energy-efficient windows, the units are really doing their job by helping serve as a barrier in the home."

Recognize the difference between condensation on the glass and between the glass panes of a multilayer window.

"If you are seeing moisture, fogging or cloudiness between the panes of glass in your window, this is a strong indication that the seal of your window has failed and it's time to get a new window," Burk said. "Failed seals lack the energy efficiency and features necessary to help you keep energy bills low and enjoy comfortable living in your home. While condensation on the interior or exterior of the glass is manageable, moisture between the glass needs swift attention."

Older, single-pane windows also can have issues.

"Windows are just like any other major part of the home," Burk said. "They wear out over time and need to be replaced. If your windows have air leaks, don't close properly or are failing to act as a solid barrier to the environment, then it's time to consider replacing them with energy- efficient windows."

Another reason to attack problems now: Some tax rebate and incentive programs for energyefficient windows and doors expire Dec. 31. (For links to programs and details, visit www.energysavvy.com/ rebates.)

Remember: Most programs require that the improvement is installed by the deadline, not just purchased.

Be safe first

"During the holiday season, there's a lot of things going on," said Sacramento's Ken Nigohosian, MetLife's regional sales manager for Northern California and a home- and auto-safety expert. "You need to be careful."

Nigohosian focuses first on fire safety. Half of all heating-related home fires happen during December, January and February.

"People want to keep their home heating expenses down," he said. "So, people look for alternatives – fireplaces and stoves."

But those come with risks. Remember: Have the chimney cleaned before you fire up the season's first blaze. Creosote – a residue of fires – can accumulate, causing the potential for chimney fires.

Also available is the Creosote Sweeping Log – about $15 at major home stores. Burn it once every 60 fires; it reportedly cuts down on creosote buildup by 50 percent.

"When you have a fireplace, you need a tight-fitting screen," Nigohosian added. "You don't want any embers flying out."

Don't start a fire with barbecue lighter fluid or other flammable liquids; they're not for indoor use.

"It increases the intensity of the fire considerably," Nigohosian said.

And never, never burn trash or a Christmas tree in the fireplace.

"It really can start a chimney fire very fast," he added. "Be careful about what you burn. If you've ever seen an evergreen tree catch fire, it goes up instantaneously, in a matter of seconds."

Another reminder to be careful with that Christmas tree in living room: Keep it away from heat or flame.

Just as home fire alarms are mandatory, California now requires carbon monoxide detectors in all single-family homes with at least one detector per level, usually near sleeping areas. If your home doesn't have one, install one.

"It's a simple safety update," Lister said, noting the detectors cost $20 to $50.

Candles in particular present a winter safety challenge.

"During the holiday season, a lot of people like to burn candles to add to the festive atmosphere," Nigohosian said. "But they can be hazardous around children and pets; keep them away from candles. Never put candles near flammable materials such as curtains or drapes. Make sure all candles are put out before you go to bed or if you leave home."

Other holiday hazards: deep-fried turkeys and Christmas lights.

"Deep-frying can cause problems," Nigohosian said, noting turkey frying causes hundreds of home fires nationwide each year. "So often, it happens with people without experience. You need to set up the fryer outside away from the house as much as possible. You've got to be careful it doesn't topple over and cause burns."

Christmas lights create another fire danger: electrical overloads.

"We see that especially in older homes," Nigohosian said. "Watch how much you plug in."

Prepare for wet and cold

Winter months in greater Sacramento average highs of 55 degrees and lows of 40.4 in December, 44.1 in January, says the National Weather Service. But temperatures often can dip below freezing.

Have frost cloths and fabric sheets (not plastic) ready to cover sensitive plants.

"Don't use black plastic bags," Lister warned. "That can cook the plants you're trying to save."

Bring pets indoors where they'll be warm and safe, too.

According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, Sacramentans will need to bundle up. The almanac's winter forecast calls for lower-than-normal winter temperatures in Northern California, particularly in late December, mid-January and early February.

And it's going to be wet, says the almanac, which is forecasting some big (and cold) storms here in January. An average Sacramento January sees about 3.8 inches of rain; the almanac expects 5.5 inches.

Just a little moisture can turn ordinary walkways into wet and slippery obstacles.

"Keep your walkways very clean," Nigohosian said. "Thanksgiving was a good example. We got a lot of rain, it got very cold and leaves dropped, creating very, very slippery conditions. You don't want that to happen to your house. Sweep the walks every couple of days – especially if you're expecting company.

"And make sure the railings on stairs are secure. If you slip and grab a railing, you want it to keep you from falling. You need something to hold onto."

In addition, walkways and stairs can become icy, especially in the foothills. Keep some rock salt on hand; a sprinkle helps melt ice quickly and stop slips.

"Just be careful," repeated Nigohosian. "It sounds pretty simple, but people get caught up in excitement of the holidays. A little caution and foresight go a long ways."

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Call The Bee's Debbie Arrington, (916) 321-1075.

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