Snow removal requires caution

Snow removal requires caution

If you plan to shoulder all or some of the seasonal chore of snow removal, take steps to stay healthy:

If you don’t already have a snowblower, consider getting one. Otherwise, get a lightweight, plastic snow shovel with an ergonomic handle to help distribute the load. Use a shovel with a deep scoop to push snow, not lift it.

Cold weather restricts blood flow. Before shoveling, warm up by jogging in place and stretching. Also, avoid a big meal or smoking just before shoveling, as either will affect blood flow.

It’s better to repeatedly remove smaller quantities of snow than it is to move large amounts at once. If snow is already deep, remove it in layers.

As you shovel, keep your back straight, bend at the knees and use the strength in your hips and thighs to lift or push snow. Don’t twist.

If you have health problems, ask someone healthier to do the job or hire a snow-removal service. Many landscaping companies offer this in the offseason. Don’t delay your search; quality companies often have a long list of existing customers.

A primer before you buy a new furnace

This time of year, your home-heating system may be going through the occasional warm-up lap, or it could be in full-blown workout mode already.

Hopefully, your system is fit for winter duty. But if you have doubts, here’s advice from top-rated HVAC pros:

To assess your current system, ask your HVAC contractor to provide a written efficiency analysis and summary of any recommended repairs. Your contractor can do this during an annual tune-up.

Heating systems are not one size fits all. Be wary of a contractor who offers a quote without examining your home. Ideally, a technician should perform what’s called a “Manual J calculation,” which includes square footage, window efficiency and other factors to determine the right size heating system. An incorrectly sized system will cost you money and comfort.

Buy the most efficient furnace you can afford.

Depending on where you live, you may have several fuel choices:

Natural gas, considered the most economical way to heat a home when temperatures are below freezing.

Oil or propane, which can be a good option where gas lines aren’t available. However, oil or propane furnaces require more storage room, run “dirtier” than natural gas and can be more expensive to operate.

Tribune News Service