As the temperatures drop and the leaves start to fall, now’s the time to make sure your home is ready for another Ohio winter. A few smart heating and cooling preparations can help keep your home comfortable—and your energy bills manageable—all season long.

1) Check Your Furnace and Heating Systems Early

Don’t wait until the first freeze to find out your furnace isn’t working properly. Turn it on now to make sure it starts smoothly and blows warm air. Replace your furnace filter if it’s been a few months—a clean filter helps your system run efficiently and improves indoor air quality.

If your furnace seems sluggish or makes unusual noises, schedule a quick tune-up. A little maintenance can prevent bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road.

2) Stock Up on Wood Pellets and Firewood

If you rely on a pellet stove, now is the time to grab wood pellets. Pettigrew Feed & Hardware carries high-quality pellets that burn clean and hot—perfect for keeping your living space warm all winter long.

Using a wood stove? Make sure your chimney or flue is cleaned before heavy use. A clear vent path reduces smoke buildup and helps your stove heat more efficiently.

3) Seal Up Drafts and Leaks

Even the best heating system can’t keep up if warm air is escaping through cracks or gaps. Check around windows, doors, and attic openings for leaks. A few rolls of weatherstripping or a can of spray foam can make a big difference in comfort—and savings.

4) Smart Thermostats Make Life Easier

Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. You can set schedules or control your home’s temperature from your phone, so you’re not heating an empty house during the day. These devices often pay for themselves in energy savings.

5) Space Heaters: Comfort Where You Need It

Sometimes you don’t need to heat the whole house—just the room you’re in. Portable space heaters are a safe, efficient way to take the chill off a workspace, living room, or bedroom. Look for models with tip-over protection and automatic shutoff for added peace of mind.

6) Don’t Forget Cooling for Those Odd Warm Days

Ohio winters can still surprise you with a few spring-like afternoons. Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise (on low) during winter to gently push warm air down—but switch them back to counterclockwise when those milder days roll in to help circulate cool air.

7) Be Ready for the Unexpected

• Extra extension cords or generator fuel
• Ice melt for driveways and steps
• Pipe insulation to prevent freezing
• Flashlights and batteries for storm prep

Shop Local, Stay Cozy

Whether you need wood pellets, space heaters, weatherstripping, or furnace filters, Pettigrew Feed & Hardware has you covered with friendly advice and the right supplies to make this winter your coziest one yet.