Keep the cold out, the heat in, and your utility costs down this winter. Here are five ways to winterize your home, on a budget!

Check the gutters. It’s important to prevent ice dams by cleaning out your gutters, installing gutter guards (if feasible) and making sure the attic floor is properly insulated. The attic itself should be well-ventilated and about 10 degrees warmer than outside.

Protect the pipes. You can prevent frozen pipes by insulating those that could be vulnerable to freezing. With severe temperature drops, you should routinely run water in a few faucets to guard against freezing and bursting.

Seal the cracks. Caulk around openings to help prevent cold air from pouring in. You can also install weather stripping and seals around openings such as windows and doors.

Have your heating checked. Furnaces, boilers and chimneys should be serviced or inspected at least once a year. This will help to clear any buildup and to ensure they are running efficiently.

Test your detectors. Residential fires are more common during the winter, so it is important that all of your smoke detectors work properly. Check them on a regular basis and replace batteries as needed. You should also install a carbon monoxide detector to avoid trapping this toxic gas in your home.

Does your home need some work done to it before the snow begins to fall? You should consider a personal loan with SeaComm! As a SeaComm member, you might already be pre-approved through LoanEngine™ – our loan pre-approval program that allows you to view and accept loan offers without having to come into a branch or fill out an application. If you qualify for a pre-approved offer, you’ll be presented with it through our SeaComm Mobile app or NetTeller™ in the “My Offers” tab, via email, and/or a letter through the mail.

With LoanEngine™, you have the ability to accept offers immediately by following the prompts, or by calling into our call center at (800) 764-0566. Click here to login to your NetTeller™ to view your current offers! If you don’t have any offers at this time, be sure to check back every 60 days.