We have had a long, warm fall — including one of the mildest Novembers — we really can’t complain. But with the holidays now just around the corner, it’s definitely time for some seasonal weather. For many of us, today was about dusting off the shovels, clearing the snow off our driveways and pulling out the winter gloves and hats. This season take a fresh approach to your cold-winter habits.
Fight Frost Naturally
Winter makes for slippery sidewalks and roads. Many de-icers are now being made naturally. Try a mixture of salt and beet juice. Commercially this mixture is called Geomelt. Keep it Green is another eco-friendly snow and ice melting product. Also, to prevent ice from covering home and car windows, rub the inside of the glass with a saltwater-soaked sponge; dry with a clean cloth. You won’t see it, but a residue from the salt will remain to ward off frost.
Minimize Idling
Don’t let your car idle for more than 30 seconds. Beyond wasting fuel, excessive idling strains cylinders, spark plugs, exhaust systems, and engines. The best way to warm up the car is driving it.
Let the sunshine in
Even in winter, the sun’s rays provide a fair amount of warmth. Take advantage of free heating, open blinds and curtains on the windows that receive the most light (usually on the east side).
Ditch the wood-burning fireplace
Everybody loves to cozy up by a fireplace in the winter. Unfortunately, burning all of that wood can end up leaving quite the carbon footprint. Use a natural gas fireplace instead. According to the Sierra Club, burning natural gas instead of wood will reduce your carbon footprint and pollution contribution.
Most of all, enjoy the wintertime weather. Before we know it, all of this snow will be melting again. Let’s enjoy it while it lasts!
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