THERE are many steps we take to protect our homes during the winter, from draught stoppers to insulation.
A home expert shared some of the forgotten winter chores which could end up costing you money if ignored.
Instagram user Babs, known to her followers as Brunch with Babs, shared the top four chores that will protect your home this winter.
For her first tip, the home expert recommended cleaning out your gutters after the autumn season.
She detailed: "This will prevent water damage to the interior or exterior of your home."
Babs also suggested using a spaghetti spoon to remove the leaves if your gutter is easily reachable.
"It’ll collect the leaves and drain the water," she explained.
Next, the Instagrammer advised her followers to shut off the main water source to the outside of your home.
"Once you do that, remove the hose and then drain any remaining water. This will prevent a burst pipe and a huge plumbing bill," Babs said.
The home expert also suggested replacing your furnace filter ahead of the winter season.
"This will prevent those high energy bills. A clean filter will save you 15% on energy costs," Babs explained as she demonstrated the simple task.
And since Christmas trees, especially real ones, are so flammable, the influencer had a very important final tip.
"It's a good time to check the batteries on your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detectors," she told her audience.
"Furnace filter?!? I didn't even know there was such a thing. I'm gonna get my husband to check it," wrote one viewer.
Another follower said: "That furnace filter tip was actually really informative."
"Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors get new batteries every Christmas. A gift to the house, changed every New Year's Eve," commented a third person.
