With the cold temperatures and snowfalls we've had this winter, homeowners need to make sure they are taking care of their homes to reduce maintenance and utility costs.  Here is a mini checklist provided by HB Services, one of the Cook and Zook Team's preferred handyman services. 

Central Heating
Change or clean furnace filters.
Open floor vents and close ceiling vents.  The warm air will escape through the ceiling vents if they are not closed.
If your heating system is outdated, consider replacing it with a more efficient system.

Insulation
Make sure you have proper insulation throughout your home. 
Check your attic, craw spaces and basement for areas that could be insulated better.

Attic
Make sure your attic vents are open year round.  Shutting off vents can cause winter ice dams.

Exterior
Make sure all exterior to interior wires and pipes are sealed properly.  If necessary, caulk around airway openings.
Remove, drain, and coil garden hoses.
Shut of the interior cut off valve for each exterior faucet valve and open the exterior faucet so water does not freeze in the pipes.  
Make sure you have a snow shovel ready and sidewalk salt on hand.