15 Ways to Winterize Your Home (continued)

Step 11. Get to know your plumbing. Learn how to shut the water off and know where your pipes are located. If your pipes do freeze, time is of the essence. The quicker you can shut off the water, or direct your plumber to the problem, the better chance you have to prevent pipes from bursting.

Step 12. Watch out for wood rot. Check your bathroom, ceilings and walls for signs of wood rot. If there is a stain showing, it is most likely do to a leak. Wood rot does not go away - it usually gets worse by eating away your walls. Your bathroom in particular is vulnerable to mold. In order to avoid getting sick or having to initiate some serious home repairs, make sure all leads and sources of moisture are found and repaired.

Step 13. Don't forget the air conditioner and exterior spigots. Drain hoses and air conditioner pipes to keep your air conditioner in good working order when the season changes again. Make sure you turn off exterior spigots so you are not wasting water due to leaks that may freeze on the sidewalk or porch and create a dangerous situation.

Step 14. Take special care if you plan to be away from home. If you are away for an extended period of time, have the water system drained by a professional to keep pipes from freezing or bursting.

Step 15. Store away lawn equipment. Drain the gasoline from lawnmowers, weedwackers and other engines that won't be used until spring.