In This Issue:
*Furnace Inspection
*Water Heater Preparation
*Window Winterizing
*Backyard Fire Pit
*Community Events
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You can also click any of the store pictures below to go to the store website.
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214 North Walnut
Springfield, IL 62702
217-528-5673
Manager: Gerardo Campos |
900 West Morton
Jacksonville, IL 62650
217-245-9563
Manager: Lori Beck |
1713 Spresser
Taylorville, IL 62568
217-824-3325
Manager: Shirley Niethe |
1600 Wabash
Springfield, IL 62704
217-787-5100
Manager: Robert Chellios |
204 East College
Normal, IL 61761
309-454-5413
Manager: Kelly Warning |
207 West Main
Havana, IL 62644
309-543-2638
Manager: Heather McGlothin |
111 East 1st North
Carlinville, IL 62626
217-854-2564
Manager: Chad Strubbe |
521 North Kickapoo
Lincoln, IL 62656
217-735-1458
Manager: JR Bailey |
1200 North Main
Chatham, IL 62629
217-483-4085
Manager: Michael House |
300 Springfield
Hillsboro, IL 62049
217-532-6677
Manager: Kristel White
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Dear ,
Thank you for opening our 6th edition of the newsletter. In this edition you will find tips and information to help you ensure your home is winter ready. Although you may not want to think about it yet, cold weather will be here before you know it. It is important to make necessary repairs to prepare your home for the winter season, and why wait until it is already cold out?
As always, feel free to forward this e-mail on to friends and family who may enjoy the newsletter. If this is your first time receiving this e-mail and you would like to continue getting monthly newsletters from us, click the subscribe to link on the left of the page.
Sincerely,
George W. Preckwinkle and Lucy E. Bagot
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Furnace Inspection
Many people expect their furnaces to start up and heat efficiently year after year without proper maintenance. However, it is important to have your furnace inspected regularly to ensure efficient use of fuels and overall home safety. Improperly maintained units can not only increase your monthly bills, but can be dangerous if high levels of carbon monoxide are being released into the home.
Homeowners can change or clean the furnace filters on  their own, but some jobs are better left to the professionals. If you haven't had your furnace inspected for a few years, or ever at all, get on the phone and call your local qualified service technician today. A thorough inspection on average can run around $75-$100, but it is well worth the money to save on energy and ensure safety.
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Water Heater Prep
Like your furnace, your water heater should be inspected regularly to check for leaks, rust and corrosion. You wouldn't want your hot water running out in the middle of winter! Any homeowner can check for problems on their own by inspecting the temperature pressure relief valve,pipes, surrounding walls and floor, and sound of the water heater.
The temperature pressure relief valve, located on the top of the water heater, guards against excessive  temperatures and pressures, and should be checked regularly to prevent it from sticking. To check the valve, push or lift on its handle. Water should flow through the discharge pipe. Release the handle. If water did not flow through the pipe, or if water continues to drip once the handle is released, you need to call a plumber to replace the defective valve.
You should also check the supply and outlet pipes, unit housing, and the base for any corrosion or signs of leaking. If you do find a moist area, wipe it with a towel to determine if the water is simply condensation buildup or if your water heater actually has a leak. Repair any leaks or replace the unit, if necessary.
Finally, it is important to listen to your water heater. Sediment can build up in the bottom of your water heater which can decrease the efficiency of the unit and even cause damage. If you hear any strange noises such as whistling, rumbling or crackling, place a bucket under the drain valve on the bottom of the unit and drain the water and sediment until the water runs clear.
Although these are simple  checks you can perform regularly on your own, your water heater should also be inspected by a professional at the same time your heating unit is serviced to ensure maximum efficiency.
Helpful Hint: If you don't already have an insulating blanket around your water heater, you should consider getting one. In the winter you don't want to spend money heating your water, only to let all the heat escape.
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Window Winterizing
Before the cold weather hits you should thoroughly check your windows inside and out to pinpoint any areas that could cause cold air to draft inside.
First you will want to be sure to check your windows for a secure fit. Clean out any debris from the track of the window to create a snug closure. Make sure the window is sealed completely. Even a small opening can allow hot air to escape and cold air to enter.
After you are certain your windows are securely closed, you can check window frames for air leaks. To do this, light a candle and hold the candle 4 to 6 inches away from the frame. If the flame flickers or wavers, you have an air leak. Stop the leak by caulking around the window casing.
If necessary, you may also want to consider applying shrink plastic to the inside of your windows or heavy plastic sheeting to the outside of your windows (whichever method you prefer). Also, by installing insulated blinds or curtains you can block cold air from entering and prevent warm air from escaping.
By following these tips, not only are you keeping the cold air out, but you can save on your home's heating costs as well. |
Backyard Fire Pit
A fire pit in your backyard is a great, cozy way to entertain guests spring, summer and fall--especially when the nights start to get a little chilly. A quick, inexpensive project can create a lifetime of memories.
What you'll need:
Cast concrete wall stones
Sand
Shovel
Tape Measure
Level
Tamper
1. After checking the building codes for your community, lay out the stones for the fire pit where you want them. Once you have your design laid out, dig a hole 12 inches deep in that area.
2. Fill the bottom of the hole with sand and tamp level.
3. Begin placing your wall stones around the perimeter of the hole. Stack the stones 12 inches above the surrounding ground.
4. Pour sand into the fire pit about 4 inces deep.
5. Build a fire and enjoy your new fire pit!
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Community Events
October 9-Haunted Night at the Hockenhull Building: Jacksonville
October 9-Carve for the Carillon: Springfield
October 9-10-Indian Summer Festival: Lincoln Memorial Gardens, Springfield
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