Winter Wonderland at Home: 8 Essential HVAC Safety Tips for a Cozy and Safe Season

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As the snow begins to fall and the holiday lights brighten the chilly nights, it’s truly the happiest time of the year. Gathering with loved ones, indulging in seasonal treats, and getting cozy in the warmth of our homes creates memories that last a lifetime. However, the magic of the season can quickly fade if you’re faced with HVAC challenges. But fear not! By following these eight essential HVAC safety tips, you can ensure safety, comfort, and joy throughout the winter months.

1. Be Aware of HVAC Safety Hazards:Understand and recognize potential HVAC hazards. Restricted airflow, a common issue during winter, can often be mistaken for a mere draft. However, this could signal blocked or clogged heating vents, posing serious fire risks. Ensure that furniture does not obstruct vents and that they are free from debris.

2. Prevent Frozen Pipes: As the mercury drops, the risk of ice forming on pipes and coils increases, leading to potential freezes and malfunctions, especially in heat pump systems. Ensure your system is equipped with automatic defrost capabilities to avoid these icy challenges.

3. Schedule Annual Maintenance: Proactive steps are key to a warm winter. Schedule HVAC maintenance services before winter strikes. This preventive measure helps identify and resolve issues early, ensuring your system operates smoothly throughout the season.

4. Trust the Professionals: While DIY maintenance might seem cost-effective, complex HVAC systems often require professional expertise. Hiring a professional ensures a thorough inspection and maintenance, preventing future complications and ensuring your system’s longevity.

5. Check Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: With increased use of heating appliances, the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning rises. Regularly test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to safeguard your home and loved ones.

6. Utilize Range Hood Exhaust Fans: Cooking holiday feasts can generate significant indoor air pollution. Activate your range hood exhaust fan to eliminate smoke, grease, and odors, maintaining a fresh and healthy indoor atmosphere.

7. Be Mindful of Appliance Placement: Ensure that your heating appliances, like furnaces and water heaters, have sufficient clearance to operate safely. Avoid covering or obstructing these units to prevent fires and ensure proper ventilation.

8. Smart Thermostat Management: Prevent burst pipes and energy waste by setting your thermostat to a minimum of 67 degrees when away. Consider a programmable WIFI thermostat for convenience and efficiency, avoiding drastic temperature drops that can lead to costly repairs.

By embracing these HVAC safety tips, you can enjoy the winter festivities worry-free. Regular maintenance, awareness, and a proactive approach can transform your home into a warm, safe haven for holiday celebrations. Remember, when it comes to your home’s comfort and safety, a little prevention goes a long way. So, wrap up in your favorite blanket, sip on some hot cocoa, and relish the cozy tranquility of your well-maintained home this winter season.

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St. Tammany Parish Library Welcomes Families Back to Storytime

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After a festive pause, St. Tammany Parish Library is thrilled to announce the return of beloved Storytime events for young children and their families starting this month. The brief hiatus, dedicated to special holiday activities, has ended, and the library is ready to re-engage the community with the joy of reading and interactive learning.The image displays a refined bathroom featuring a double vanity with white cabinetry, marble countertops, and gold fixtures.

Beginning January 16, families can dive back into the magical world of books with programs like KIDS StoryTots and KIDS Play Date. Additionally, Family Storytime sessions are set to create memorable experiences for children and their guardians alike across various library branches.

Particularly exciting for the little artists is KIDS Story Art, held at the Madisonville and Covington Libraries. This unique event caters to children aged 2 to 5, encouraging them to unleash their creativity by crafting an artwork inspired by a children’s story. The best part? All necessary materials are provided, ensuring every child can participate and explore their artistic talents without any barriers.

No pre-registration is required for these enriching Storytime events, making spontaneous attendance as easy as a fairy tale. For those interested in planning ahead, the full schedule of events is available at the library’s official website, sttammanylibrary.org/events.

To keep patrons informed of all the happenings at the library, St. Tammany Parish Library offers the Bookrunner, an online newsletter. Launched digitally post-2017 and having carried the ‘Bookrunner’ title since 1996, the newsletter has evolved to better serve the community’s needs. Patrons can sign up directly on the library’s website or ensure their library card includes an email address to receive this informative bulletin.

The Friends of the Slidell Library are hosting their exclusive Used Book Preview Sale on January 19, followed by a public sale the next day, offering a treasure trove of books and more. Similarly, the Friends of the Library of West St. Tammany are holding their monthly Used Book Sale on the same dates, with bargains starting as low as 25 cents.

Moreover, the silent auctions presented by the Friends groups promise rare finds and collectibles, perfect for bibliophiles and collectors alike. From historical texts to guides on natural history, these auctions are a bibliophile’s dream.

The library’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond reading. Events such as the Minecraft party at the Slidell Library and On the Floor Yoga sessions offer diverse activities for all interests and ages. Additionally, the ASK sessions at the Bush Library provide patrons with the opportunity to receive personalized assistance with their technology needs.

The St. Tammany Parish Library continues to be a cornerstone of the community, providing educational, recreational, and cultural opportunities for residents of all ages. With the return of Storytime events and a calendar filled with diverse activities, the library invites everyone to start the new year immersed in the joy of discovery and learning.

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