Consumer Corner
6 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather
Last Updated on November 7, 2025 by Daily News Staff
(Family Features) Winter weather, while often beautiful, can prove challenging for homeowners. Snow and ice accumulation can cause damage or disruption to many components of homes and properties, including heating systems and appliances, communication and access to and from property.
Utilizing a reliable, efficient and affordable energy source like propane can help power critical systems – home heating, cooktops, ovens, fireplaces, boilers and water heaters. Because propane is stored on-site, it’s resilient enough to withstand some of the dangers of winter weather, such as power outages that interrupt access to the electric grid. Available in a variety of capacities to fit the needs of any size home, propane-powered generators can provide supplemental power in as little as 10 seconds after an electrical grid failure, ensuring vital systems like home heating, cooking and smoke and fire detection systems are not interrupted when you need them the most.
Consider these tips from the experts at the Propane Education & Research Council to help prepare your family and home for winter weather and find more resources at Propane.com.
Get to Know Your Propane System
If you’re unfamiliar with your propane system, take a few minutes to review it. Identify core components, including the tank, regulators, meter, piping and supply valves, as well as any appliance vents. Locate the main gas supply valve in case you need to turn off the propane in the event of an emergency. Call a propane professional to inspect the system before restoring it.
Ensure an Adequate Supply of Propane
Establish a regular delivery schedule with your propane provider – particularly during the winter months – or call to schedule a delivery when the tank gauge reads 30% to give your provider enough time to make a delivery and ensure you have an adequate supply in your tank.
Mark Your Tank
Especially if your home’s propane tank is buried, be sure to mark its location with a brightly colored stake or flag taller than the maximum anticipated snow depth. This will help propane suppliers easily locate your tank, ensuring they can refill it during scheduled appointments.
Ready Your Furnace
If it’s time to upgrade your home’s climate control system, it’s a smart idea to do your homework and explore all options. Consider propane-powered furnaces, which last 50% longer than electric heat pumps for a lower lifetime investment. Propane furnaces also provide warmer air than other heat sources (115-125 F), are less impacted by outdoor temperatures and produce 50% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electric furnaces and 12% less than fuel oil furnaces.
Take Advantage of Your Fireplace
The warm glow of a fire isn’t only comforting; it can be a practical and effective way to increase the heat inside your home. Not only do propane fireplaces offer 5-6 times the heating capacity of electric fireplaces, they’re also more energy efficient, environmentally friendly, convenient to use and easier to install than woodburning models. They also emit less soot and other emissions.
Install Gas and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Installing UL-listed propane gas detectors and carbon monoxide detectors can provide you and your family with additional peace of mind. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation, location and maintenance.
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Propane Education & Research Council
A Healthier, Greener Home: Eco-Friendly Cleaning Hacks
(Feature Impact) Keeping your home clean doesn’t have to mean filling your cabinets with harsh chemicals or single-use cleaning products. In fact, some of the most effective solutions may already be in your pantry.
By swapping a few everyday products for simple, eco-friendly solutions, you can clean effectively, save money and make your home a little greener. If you’re looking to reduce waste, cut back on toxins and simplify your cleaning routine, natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and lemon can deliver results while also being safer for your home – and the environment.
Make Your Own All-Purpose Cleaner
Instead of buying multiple cleaners for different surfaces, try a DIY solution that works in many areas of the home. In a spray bottle, combine 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup water and 10 drops of the essential oil of your choice – such as lemon, lavender or tea tree – then use it on countertops, sinks, glass and other surfaces to curb grease and grime. Avoid using vinegar-based cleaners on natural stone like granite or marble, however, as its acidity can cause damage.
Let Baking Soda Do the Scrubbing
One of the most versatile eco-friendly cleaners around, baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive that helps lift stains without scratching surfaces. Simply sprinkle baking soda onto sinks, bathtubs, cookware, stovetops or tile grout then scrub with a damp sponge or cloth for a sparkling clean finish.
Freshen Carpets Naturally
Carpets and rugs can trap odors, but a DIY deodorizer made of 1 cup baking soda and 10-15 drops of the essential oil of your choice can replace chemical sprays and keep floor surfaces smelling fresh. Just sprinkle across the carpet, let sit for 15-20 minutes then vacuum.
Use Lemon to Cut Grease and Stains
Lemon juice is a powerful natural cleaner due to its acidity and antibacterial properties. It can leave behind a fresh scent when used to clean cutting boards, remove soap scum and water spots or deodorize garbage disposals. For stubborn grime, mix lemon juice with baking soda to create a paste that can tackle tough surface stains.
Naturally Deodorize Drains
If your kitchen sink smells unpleasant, skip the harsh chemical drain cleaners. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain then add 1/2 cup white vinegar. Let the mixture fizz a few minutes then flush with hot water to help loosen buildup while neutralizing odors.
Polish Stainless Steel with Pantry Staples
Remove grimy fingerprints and give stainless steel appliances a streak-free shine with a simple mixture of 1 tablespoon white vinegar and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Find more DIY, eco-friendly cleaning tips and tricks at eLivingtoday.com.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
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Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
home improvement
Fresh Start, Fresh Planet: 5 Steps to Reduce Waste During Spring Cleaning
Spring cleaning is a perfect opportunity to reset, reorganize and make small changes that can help the planet. Consider these five easy waste-reduction tips to help you jump into the season feeling organized and eco-friendly.
(Feature Impact) As the days get longer and the weather improves, many people often find the motivation to refresh their homes – and their habits.
Spring cleaning is a perfect opportunity to reset, reorganize and make small changes that can help the planet. What’s more, these changes are simple to implement and can even earn you some extra cash.
Steps to Reduce Waste During Spring Cleaning
Consider these five easy waste-reduction tips from the experts at CalRecycle to help you jump into the season feeling organized and eco-friendly.
1. Recycle Kitchen Waste
As you clear out expired or forgotten food, sort items for maximum impact:
- Remove plastic and non-compostable packaging and put spoiled or freezer-burned food into your green bin. These scraps can be turned into compost and clean energy, helping cut methane emissions from landfills.
- Toss empty, dry recyclables, including condiment bottles, glass jars, metal cans and plastic food containers, into your blue bin.
2. Cash in Empty Beverage Containers
- Cleaning out your home may uncover some empty or forgotten beverage containers. Empty out leftover liquids and take eligible beverage containers for soda, water, juice, wine and distilled spirits to your nearest recycling site for cash back. Every California Redemption Value (CRV) beverage container you recycle saves resources and puts money back in your pocket.
- If you’re short on time, donate your empty CRV beverage containers to your favorite nonprofit organization. Set up a separate bin just for eligible beverage containers and drop them off for donation when it’s full.
3. Give Clothes and Household Items a Second Life
- Dig into your closets and shelves to see what you can repair, repurpose or donate. Fix a missing button, turn old fabric into cleaning rags or give gently used items to a local free-exchange group or thrift store to reduce textile waste. Simple steps like these can keep usable items out of the landfill and help someone else put them to good use.
4. Declutter Paper and Electronics
- Recycle junk mail, magazines and newspapers in your blue bin. Remove any plastic windows, wrap or stickers first. If you shred documents, place the shredded paper inside a paper bag before recycling. Bonus tip: Switching to digital statements and bills can help prevent paper clutter in the first place.
- Old electronics and used batteries don’t belong in the trash. Gather them from drawers and cabinets then take them to an e-waste drop-off site or local household hazardous waste collection center for safe handling.
5. Refresh the Bathroom
- When restocking soaps or cleaners, look for products that offer refillable containers (especially reusable glass and aluminum ones). It’s a simple way to cut down on plastic waste.
- When you finish bottles of shampoo, conditioner, soap or cleaning sprays, make sure they land in your recycling bin after you empty them out.
- Swap out single-use paper towels for washable cloths or rags. They’re reusable, durable and kinder to the environment.
For more details, CRV redemption locations and food scrap recycling tips, visit RecyclingReimaginedCA.com.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
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Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
SUVs and EVs Take Center Stage at the 2026 New York International Auto Show
(Feature Impact) The 2026 New York International Auto Show is shining a spotlight on the latest in automotive innovation, from advanced technology to the growing shift toward electric vehicles. One automaker, Kia, is using the show to highlight two versatile SUVs designed to offer more space, capability and flexibility for modern drivers.
Watch this video to learn more
The all-new 2027 Kia Seltos has grown in size, offering a roomier interior with additional legroom, headroom and cargo space. It also adds a hybrid powertrain, making it the only vehicle in its class with three powertrain options. The SUV comes packed with advanced safety features, a more capable all-wheel-drive system and premium interior touches, including dual 12.3-inch display screens and an available panoramic sunroof.
The automaker is also showcasing the all-electric EV3, a compact SUV designed to make electric vehicle ownership more practical. With an estimated range of up to 320 miles, fast-charging capability and optional all-wheel drive, it balances performance, technology and everyday usability. Its intuitive features and flexible design make transitioning to electric simpler for a wider range of drivers.
Both models represent Kia’s commitment to providing options that blend capability, innovation and style. To learn more, visit Kia.com.
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Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
