Results: 5 quick-and-easy ways to Winterize your home

Inspect doors and windows for drafts: The easiest way to inspect for drafts - Walk around your home with a lighter or candle and hold it up to a window or door, preferably on a windy day. If you see movement in your flame, it's time for a quick fix-it job. The doors can be sealed with weather stripping and the window may need a fresh dose of caulking. Did you have to Winterize your doors and windows for 2016?

Improve attic insulation: Replacing attic insulation can be costly, but it's well worth the upfront investment. Take a peek up in your attic, and if the 2x4s are showing through the insulation, it's time to add more. You may want to have insulation installed professionally, as it can be a messy job. If you have an attic, is it insulated?

Install a programmable thermostat: You can purchase a programmable thermostat at your local hardware store for as little as $25. However, you may want to call a professional to install it (unless you are handy with electrical appliances and wiring). By taking this simple measure, you can lower the temperature of your home while you're away at work without turning off your heat entirely. Do you have a programmable thermostat in your home (or apartment)?

Clean the gutters: Unless you're afraid of heights, you can do this one yourself as long as you're careful. All you need is a ladder and some work gloves. To ensure the job is complete (after removing all the leaves and other debris) use a hose to spray water into the downspout to clear hard-to-reach obstructions. Clogged gutters can present a dangerous situation in the event of a snowstorm. If the melting snow can't drain, it will freeze in your gutters. This increased weight can cause them to chip away at the frame of your home. Did you clean-out your gutters for Fall of 2016?

Adjust the ceiling fans: Ceiling fans should rotate clockwise during the winter months. This way, the heat is evenly distributed throughout your rooms, as the fan pushes rising warm air down throughout the home. Were you aware of this fact on ceiling fans?