McKeithen's Hardware cares about your safety and comfort during the cold snap. They have stocked up on essential supplies to help you protect your home, including weather stripping, pipe insulation, space heaters, and more.
Stop by today to get what you need and stay ahead of the freezing temperatures.
1. Ready Your HVAC System
- Inspect Your System: Ensure your HVAC system is functioning properly. Schedule a maintenance check if needed.
- Replace Filters: Regularly replace HVAC filters to improve efficiency and air quality.
2. Manage Energy Usage Efficiently
- Do Laundry and Dishes Early: Complete non-essential tasks like laundry and running the dishwasher now. This will allow you to postpone electricity usage during extreme temperatures, conserving energy. (Water heaters use 14% of a home’s energy.)
- Charge Electric Vehicles Midday: If you drive an electric vehicle, charge it during the middle of the day to avoid peak energy demand during extreme weather conditions.
- Smart Thermostat Settings: Set your thermostat to 68°F or lower. Lower it further at night or when you’re away from home. Heating and cooling typically account for 55% of residential energy use.
3. Adopt Kitchen Energy-Saving Practices
- Use the lowest possible heat setting to cook meals.
- Avoid opening the oven door frequently to retain heat and reduce energy use.
4. Harness Natural Warmth
- Daylight: Open blinds, drapes, and curtains during the day to let in warmth from the sun.
- Nighttime Insulation: Close them at night to block out the cold.
5. Weatherproof Your Home
- Seal Gaps: Apply caulk or weather stripping around windows, exterior doors, and any noticeable gaps to prevent drafts. (Find these supplies at McKeithen’s Hardware!)
- Insulate Pipes: Protect pipes from freezing by insulating them, especially those in unheated spaces.
6. Protect What Matters
- Pets: Ensure your pets have a warm, secure space.
- Plants: Move plants indoors if possible or cover outdoor plants to shield them from frost.
- People: Check in on friends and neighbors, especially those who may need help with these preparations.
7. Space Heater and Fire Safety
- Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets, not extension cords.
- Keep at least 3 feet of clearance around space heaters to prevent fires.
- Ensure proper ventilation for any appliances or fireplaces that burn fuel.
By following these steps and stocking up on supplies from McKeithen's Hardware, you can stay warm, safe, and energy-efficient during the cold snap.
Preparing now can make all the difference when temperatures plummet. Stay proactive and stay safe!
Visit them at 58 Independence Way, Statesboro, GA.
- Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Phone: (912) 259-9675