Back To School Time


Just when summer is in full swing, you go to Target and their seasonal section is full of Back To School supplies. Yikes. Is it just me, or does it seem wrong to send kids to school while it’s still summer? Growing up, school started after Labor Day, and seeing the hostas in bloom was our sure sign school was just around the corner (although my hostas started  blooming at the end of July; perhaps my mom grew a late-blooming varietal?) Now August is the back-to-school month. Regardless of when kids return to continue their education and whether or not you are a parent, this time of year affects us all.

If you are a parent, you might be jumping for joy to get your children back to a routine. Or you could be worried about transportation hassles, the cost of class supplies, school versus work schedules, or bullying.  Your kids may be excited to see their friends but could have concerns about homework, projects, navigating bus routes, virtual school, or making friends. If you are not a parent, you might experience traffic delays as those big yellow buses and school zones slow things down a bit. Needless to say, back-to-school season is a challenge for everyone involved. Here are some suggestions to help you navigate the season with grace, calm, and organization.

ROUTINE

Switching from a summer to a school schedule can be stressful for everyone in the household. Avoid first-day-of-school mayhem by practicing your routine in advance. Return to a regular sleep schedule a few weeks before school starts. Establish regular bedtimes and start gentle wind-down activities such as bath time and reading. Getting enough sleep is an important part of being ready to learn and concentrate.  Did you know that insufficient sleep could lead to lower academic achievement and higher rates of absenteeism and tardiness? The optimal amount of sleep for most younger children is 10-12 hours per night and for adolescents (13-18 years of age) is in the range of 8-10 hours per night.

Now is the perfect opportunity to establish screen time limits. Your whole family can “unplug” in the evenings before bedtime, charge devices overnight in the same spot, and use an alarm clock instead of a cell phone to wake up in the mornings. Rising a bit earlier will allow time for a good breakfast and prevent rushing around headaches.

Establishing a consistent routine is important for kids. Write out the steps in the routine and rehearse them with your child. In the evening, this could include doing homework, playtime, brushing their teeth, having a bath, and reading before bed. Routines help children feel comfortable, and establishing a solid routine will make the first day go much smoother.

PRE-SCHOOL JITTERS

Many children get nervous about new situations, including changing to a new school, classroom, or teacher. This may happen at any age! If your child seems nervous, it can be helpful to rehearse heading into the new situation. Take them to visit the new school or classroom before the first day of school. Hopefully, this will help ease their fears. Plus, it will give you a good idea of how they are spending their day.

Remind your child that there are probably a lot of students who are uneasy about the first day. Teachers know that students are nervous and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible. If your child seems nervous, ask them what they are worried about and help them problem-solve ways to master the new situation.

One of the biggest back-to-school fears is “Will I like my new teacher?” Breaking the ice early on is one of the best ways to calm everyone’s fears. Go to your school’s open house or back-to-school night. Some teachers welcome phone calls or e-mails — another great opportunity to get to know each other before the year begins.

You can also try to locate the teacher’s picture on a school website or in a yearbook, so your child can put a name with a face. If your child’s teacher sends a welcome letter, be sure to read the letter together.

Point out the positive aspects of starting school to help your kids look forward to the first day of class. Talk about how they will see old friends and meet new ones, for example.

If you feel it is needed, drive your child (or walk with them) to school and pick them up on the first day. Get there early on the first day to cut down on unnecessary stress.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

Obtain the class supply list and take a special shopping trip with your child. Having the right tools will help him feel prepared. While keeping basic needs in mind, allow for a couple of splurges like a cool notebook or a favorite-colored pen. These simple pleasures make going to their place of higher learning a lot more fun. I always loved shopping for school supplies as a kid, didn’t you? In fact, I still enjoy a trip to Office Depot,  Staples, or Target to indulge myself with new office supplies and almost always find something I didn’t realize I needed!

Supply lists also provide great insight into the schoolwork ahead. Get your child excited about upcoming projects by explaining how new supplies might be used. Let him practice using supplies that he’s not used before — such as colored pencils or a protractor — so he will be comfortable using them in class.

Review the school supply list and shop for as many bargains as possible. Retailers are all jockeying for you to spend money with them. Keep in mind you can often substitute store-brand items for name-brand and get the same quality for less money. Click here for The Spruce’s Top 8 Best Places to Buy School Supplies.

BACKPACKS

Most kids carry books in a backpack and not all are created equal. But they are SO MUCH BETTER than the awful, heavy bookbags of years gone by. Click here for Good Housekeeping’s 12 top-tested backpacks for the 2023 school year. Look for a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back. Organize your child’s backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10% to 20% of your child’s body weight. We don’t want them to tip over!  Go through the pack with your child weekly and remove unneeded items to keep it light.

Remind your child to always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles. Adjust the pack so that the bottom sits at your child’s waist.

If your school allows, consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. But keep in mind that rolling backpacks still must be transported up and down stairs, they may be difficult to roll in snow, and they may not fit in some lockers.

TRANSPORTATION

Determine how your child will travel to and from their education venue. Review the basic rules with your student and practice any new routes or modes of transportation:

School bus

  • Remind your child to wait for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb.
  • Make sure your child walks where she can see the bus driver.
  • Practice how to cross the street before the first day of school.
  • Encourage your child to use lap/shoulder seat belts if provided.

Bike

  • Practice the bike route to school before the first day of school.
  • Require the use of a bicycle helmet, no matter how short or long the ride is. For the 10 best kids’ bike helmets, click here.
  • Ride on the right, in the same direction as auto traffic, and ride in bike lanes if they are present.
  • Practice, then use appropriate hand signals.
  • Obey traffic lights and stop signs.
  • Wear bright-colored clothing to increase visibility. White or light-colored clothing and reflective gear is especially important after dark.

Walk

  • Most kids are ready to start walking to school at 9 to 11 years of age.
  • Make sure your child’s walk to school is a safe route with well-trained adult crossing guards at every intersection.
  • Find other kids in the neighborhood with whom your child can walk to school. In neighborhoods with higher levels of traffic, consider organizing a “walking school bus,” in which an adult accompanies a group of neighborhood children walking to school.
  • If your children are young or are walking to a new school, walk with them or have another adult walk with them the first week or until you are sure they know the route and can do it safely. If your child will need to cross a street on the way to school, practice safe street crossing with them before the start of school.
  • Bright-colored clothing or a visibility device, like a vest or armband with reflectors, will make your child more visible to drivers.

FOOD

  • Provide a good breakfast before starting off. Studies show that kids who eat a nutritious breakfast do better in school, and have better concentration and more energy. Click here for 35 quick and easy breakfast ideas from Eating on a Dime.
  • Check out cafeteria menus on the school’s website. With your child, plan on packing or buying lunch.
  • Many children qualify for free or reduced-price food at school, including breakfast. Complete forms for these services at the school office.
  • Does your child’s facility have a plan that allows you to pay for meals through an online account? Kids get a card to “swipe” at the register for a cashless experience.
  • Click here for 50 ideas on packed school lunches from Super Healthy Kids, and for the perfect transportation of a yummy lunch, click here for the New York Times recommendations for the best kids’ lunch boxes.

CELEBRATE

How about a celebration for the first day of school so your kids will see back-to-school as something fun instead of something dreaded? Maybe a back-to-school party the day before school starts? How about pictures in first-day-of-school outfits and pictures in front of the school?

It’s going to be a great year!

 

RESOURCES: HealthyChildren.org, NovakDjokovicFoundation.org, PBS.org, ThePersonal.com

 

 

Where Dogs Are Welcome! Cincinnati/NKY Edition

They’re like family. We want to make it as easy for you as possible to love and care for your pups without having to spend a lotof time wondering where to take your favorite furry friend for an off-leash run,  a day of monitored play, a sleepover, or to join you someplace pup-friendly for a cold brew. Read on for our list of Where Dogs Are Welcome! locations throughout Cincinnati (by region) and Northern Kentucky. Check out additional locations in the Tour De Cincinnati Dog-Friendly section!

CINCINNATI

West: Price Hill, College Hill, Mt. Healthy, Fairfield, Mt. Airy, Cleves, Hamilton, Colerain

  • Play
    • Airy Forest Dog Park. 3006 Westwood Northern Blvd. The park boasts a large area for dogs to romp around in, as well as doggy pools and agility equipment. There are miles of trails in the beautiful Mt. Airy Forest just behind the park if Fido is seeking a change of pace. Fully Fenced, Free to public, small and large dog sides. Some agility equipment. Lots of shades and some doggy pools. Lots of picnic tables. More info here.
    • Westwoof Dog Park. Montana & Epworth Aves. Artificial turf and concrete areas make this small, fenced park a great place to visit when it’s wet outside.
    • Simmons Family Dog Park. 8715 Hamilton Cleves Pike Rd., Miamitown. A huge, 11-acre park with four separate fields, dog agility equipment, shade trees, and benches. More info here.
    • Doris Day Dog Park. 3006 Westwood Northern Blvd., Mt. Airy. Located in Mount Airy Forest, this fenced-in two-acre dog park has both grassy areas and dirt/woodchip areas for pup play. There’s agility equipment and a water hose for drinks.
    • Hamilton Bark Park. 20 New London Rd., Hamilton. Playspace, room for fetch, and Frisbee. Big and small dogs are welcome. Sculpture. More info here.
    • Diamond Dogs Dog Park. 11405 E. Miami River Rd., Cincinnati. Fido can play off-leash at Diamond Dogs Dog Park, located within the 126-acre, pet-friendly Heritage Park along the Great Miami River in Cincinnati, OH. The fenced dog park offers an entrance for large and small dogs, shade, trees, waste bags, shaded seating, and a seasonally-available water source. More info here.
  • Care
    • Petey’s Pet Stop. 311 Howell Ave. Boarding, Dog Food/Treats, Pet Supplies, Self Service Dog Washing. Linda Sterling and Beth McCarty, both occupational therapists and animal lovers, founded Petey’s Pet Stop.
    • PetSmart. 6068 Glenway Ave. Chain featuring a range of pets, supplies & food (most offer grooming, boarding & other services).
  • Going Out

East: East End, Newtown, Anderson, Batavia

  • Play
    • Deer Hill Apartments. 2551 Spindlehill Dr. A residents-only facility, this fenced-in park features dog activity stations, shade trees, and a poop station. More info here.
    • Otto Armleder Dog Park. 5057 Wooster Pike, Linwood. One of the most popular places in Cincinnati to let your dog roam around off-lease and socialize with other dogs. The park spans 10 acres and offers separate areas for large and small breeds, dog drinking fountains, a canine shower, along with plenty of shade trees and benches.
    • Red Dog Park. 5081 Madison Rd., Cincinnati. A “members-only” park run by Red Dog Resort and Spa. Three acres of fenced grassy and wooded rolling grounds. Separate areas for small and large breeds with play equipment scattered throughout the park. Drinking fountains for pups and humans. Click here for more info and pricing.
    • 3810 Church St., Newtown. A private three-acre park with grassy fields, a lake, and a variety of agility equipment. Lots of seating for humans and a massive TV that plays shows and movies. Daily admission or yearly membership is available. Rates and more info here.
    • Kellogg Park Dog Field. 6701 Kellogg Rd., Anderson. Four-acre, fenced-in park for off-leash fun. Dog-height water fountain. Beautiful mural by ArtWorks. Dawn to dusk year-round; yearly permit required. More info here.
    • David J. Stricker Dog Park. 1359 Clough Pike, Batavia. A one-acre off-leash park that allows dogs to roam off-leash. Fenced-in areas for large and small breeds. Benches, shade trees.
  • Care
  • Sleepovers
  • Going Out

North Central: Norwood, Madisonville, Hyde Park, Oakley, Pleasant Ridge

  • Play
    • Washington Park Dog Park. 1230 Elm St, Cincinnati in Over-the-Rhine. An enclosed 12,000 square-foot area within Washington Park that offers a water creek for dogs to play in, large granite boulders, and a water fountain with fresh water for owners and a spout near the ground for dogs. Benches line the perimeter of the park so visitors can hang out and socialize with other owners as well. Check out the Washington Park website for more details on the park.
    • Fido Field. 630 Eggleston Ave, Cincinnati Central Business District. Located just outside of the Central Business District near the Downtown area, this is a fenced-in, off-leash park managed and maintained completely by volunteers. The park offers play areas for both large and small breeds and there is plenty of free parking next to the park under 471 or on the surface lot on Eggleston Avenue. Currently, the park doesn’t have a permanent water source, so be sure to bring your own when you visit. More info here.
    • Redbird Hollow Trail. 6168 Given Rd. Indian Hill. Not a dog park, but a wonderful secluded 3-mile round trip nature trail with beautiful views of rivers, creek beds, forests, and many plant and bird species to discover. There’s just one entrance at a bend in the road. Dogs must be kept on leash. BYOW (bring your own water).

North: Fairfield, Franklin, Mason

  • Play
    • Wiggly Field Dog Park. 7850 VOA Park Dr. West Chester Twsp, (Mason). Fenced-in areas for small and large breeds. Benches, trees, shading structures, water fountains, and dog water bowls. More info here.
    • Schappacher Dog Park. 4686 Old Irwin Simpson Rd., Mason. Within the 10-acre Schappacher Park, there are 38,000+ square feet of room for dogs to run. This one is not huge but it’s plenty big enough for your dog to stretch his/her legs. It’s mostly mulch and bark and includes a few benches and a picnic table for the accompanying humans. More info here.
    • Furfield Dog Park. 6611 River Rd, Fairfield. The dog park is stretched over more than 6 acres of grassy land and features multiple, fenced-in areas giving room for dogs of all sizes and play levels the opportunity to exercise safely. The park also features a pond. More info here.
    • Pawmyra Dog Park. 3400 Mason Morrow Millgrove Rd, Mason. A four-acre, off-leash area located inside Mason Sports Park in Mason, OH. The dog park has dedicated play areas for smaller and larger dogs and features large entrance gates and concrete pathways for wheelchairs. More info here.
  • Care
  • Sleepovers
  • Going Out

North East: Loveland, Blue Ash

  • Play
    • Nantucket Apartments. 3569 Nantucket Dr., Loveland. A residents-only park featuring shade trees, benches, activity equipment, and a poop station. Open dawn to dusk, furry friends large and small play together. BYOW (bring your own water). More info here.
    •  Summit Park Dog Park. 4335 Glendale Milford Rd., Blue Ash. Well-maintained and fenced-in park for off-leash fun. Benches for humans; pup-height water fountains. More info here.
    • Matt Haverkamp Foundation Dog Park. 236 Wall St, Loveland. Also known as Loveland Dog Park, is located within Kiwanis Park, and is dedicated to area K9 officers and their handlers. The 2-acre space is fenced and accommodates both small and large dogs in the same area. The site includes shade trees and benches for resting. Please bring your own water. More info here.

Northern Kentucky

  • Play
    • Trails of Saddlebrook Apartments. 646 Meadowlands Trail, Florence. This resident-only dog park is more of a modest doggie run, but it’s open 24 hours and nestled amongst the trees in the back portion of the community. It has a seating bench and small activity area, and a poop station. Large and small pups play side by side. BYOW (bring your own water). More info here.
    • Fort Thomas Dog Park. 199 Mayfield Ave., Fort Thomas, KY 41075 (Fort Thomas). A dog ark inside Highland Hills Park. Fenced-in areas for both small and large breeds, and grassy areas with trails. Water is available outside the dog park, so you might want to BYOW.
    • Newport Dog Park. 901 E. 6th, Newport, KY. Located behind the Campbell County Library, the park features fenced-in areas for both large and small dogs, water fountains, lots of shade, and seating for humans. More info here.
    • The Bark Park & Patio. 7544 Burlington Pike, Florence, KY, US, 41042. The Bark Park & Patio is a private dog park with an attached taproom in Florence, KY. Fido can play in the 1+ acre fenced space while you enjoy a glass of wine or an ice-cold beer. A liability waiver will need to be signed upon your first visit. Fido must be current on all vaccinations and leased in the taproom and on the patio. Day passes are offered as well as monthly and annual dog memberships. The park is closed on Mondays for private events. Human guests must be at least 21 years of age to enter. More info here.
    • Dog Park at Walton Community Park. 35 Old Stephenson Mill Rd, Walton, KY, 41094. The fenced dog park features separate areas for small and large dogs and an agility course. After your pup expends his energy, reattach his leash and enjoy Walton Community Park which occupies 30 acres and features two large playgrounds, a paved walking trail, picnic facilities, and plenty of open space. More info here.
    • SFC Jason Bishop Memorial Dog Park. 9th St & Philadelphia St, Covington, KY 41011. Features separate areas for small and large dogs and offers seating for humans to relax and watch pups play with their new friends. Water fountains for dogs are available in warmer months. More info here.

  • Care
    • World of Pets. 7199 Turfway Rd. #2, Florence. Pet supplies.
    • PetPeople. 2790 Town Center Blvd., Crestview Hills. Pet supplies.
    • Petco. 575 Clock Tower Way, Crescent Springs. Pet supplies, training, grooming.
    • PetSmart. 1060 Hansel Ave, Florence. Pet supplies, training, grooming.
    • Yelp’s top 10 NKY groomers.
  • Sleepovers
    • Allie’s Walkabout. Voted Best of NKY 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022 and most recently named the Best Doggy Daycare in all of Kentucky by Pet News Daily. It sits on 4.5 acres, so your pal will romp and play throughout their 9,000 sq. ft. facility with 4 indoor and 4 outdoor play yards full of toys and places to climb.
    • Pet Suites of Erlanger. Boarding, daycare, training, grooming.
  • Going Out
    • Check out Bring Fido’s list of dog-friendly bars and restaurants in NKY here.
    • Find Yelp recommendations
    • Or how about BARk & Patio? Northern Kentucky finally has its very first dog park and bar, The Bark Park & Patio! They have a passion for highlighting everything local, which is why you will only find the best local craft beers and wines on tap. With over an acre of fenced-in grassy space for your four-legged best friend to run around in you will have no problem relaxing while you sip on an ice-cold beer and enjoy the backyard atmosphere we all love.

 

Disclaimer: This list was assembled by the Fath Properties marketing team who have been Googling like crazy on your behalf. We have no personal experience with the vast majority of these businesses – and this list is not all-inclusive – (although we are most definitely dog lovers and have some personal experience with businesses in our various home locations), so do not necessarily endorse them due to our global inexperience. This writer would not mind a fact-finding expedition to experience them all with pup-in-tow, but that would be a story for another day). This list is provided here for you simply to narrow down your search for services and Where Dogs Are Welcome! locations throughout the greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area.

For Dogs Are Welcome Here locations in the Dallas area, click here; for locations in Dayton, click here.

Have fun taking your furry friends Where Dogs Are Welcome! locations throughout the region. Maybe we’ll see you there. Until then, tell your dog we said, “Hi!”

Be Cool At The Pool

Be Cool At The Pool illustrated by cool water and pink flamingo floatie

Summertime….and the livin’ is easy…especially if there’s a sparkling pool where you can chill on a hot day. But chillin’ only happens when everyone is mindful of their own behavior and are kind to fellow chillers. So here are some guidelines on how to Be Cool At The Pool.

Running, jumping, diving, pushing, roughhousing, and/or weapons are the epitome of uncool.
Activities that may send you – or someone else – to the ER are off limits and totally uncool.

Be cool about saved chairs.
Sorry, lounge chair monitors. Saving a seat around the pool is just fine – within reason. Respect that a chair with a towel is taken. But chair savers need to be respectful of others too. It’s not cool to save yourself a seat hours ahead of time, save an entire umbrella table for just yourself, or save half a dozen chairs. Only use chair space you need for sitting; your stuff doesn’t need a seat. Looking for a great pool towel that’s beautiful, dries quickly and takes up very little space in your pool tote? Click here.

Shower before getting in the pool.
No one wants a layer of another person’s body grime floating around the pool. Rinse off in the shower before taking a dip, especially if you’ve been running or working outside all day. If you’re sick or have an open wound? You know what to do – stay out of the pool entirely.

Dress appropriately.
Yes, we all noticed you spent all winter working on your beach bod. But, no one wants to see your downstairs outline or extreme cleavage, especially when there are kids around. Be respectful, dress confidently but modestly, and keep the G-string and banana hammock for the beach. Be cool at the pool; save street wear for the street and wear swimwear to swim. Wear pool shoes or flip-flops everywhere in the pool area (except in the water) and in the restrooms.

If it’s breakable, leave it home.
Glass of any kind and other breakable items are strictly prohibited. Folks will be barefoot for heaven’s sake! Choose from one of a boatload of uber cool, environmentally safe non-breakable drinking vessels and beverage carriers instead.

Keep your music to yourself, use your indoor voice, and watch your language.
It’s nice that you love your music and want to share with the world, but the world didn’t ask. Keep the tunes low enough so only you can hear, or wear ear buds. If someone asks you to turn down your music, do it. Some venues do not allow audible music, so check the rules and be sure to bring your headphones (check out waterproof headphones here) or waterproof earbuds.

Follow established pool rules.
All pools will post rules somewhere along the fence or on the gate doors stating what is permitted and prohibited at the pool, safety rules, and pool hours. These rules apply to everyone including you, your family, and your guests.

Clean up after yourself, you animal.
Bringing snacks and refreshments are usually allowed at most apartment pools (no glass of any kind ever). But don’t abuse the privilege by leaving wrappers, food, cans, and trash around your seating area. Be cool at the pool and keep things clean around you by making frequent trips to the garbage/recycling.

Spray with caution.
Many people prefer the spray over lotion sunscreens of easy application. While SPF is a must, spraying everyone around you is not. To contain the contents and mist, spray in your hand and apply where needed. If you must spray, walk to an area away from others to spray. Click here for the best sunscreens of 2023.

Keep the gate key or gate code to yourself.
Your community’s pool is a private pool for you and your neighbors. Inviting friends over for a swim is totally acceptable (provided you follow the guidelines for guests), but giving your access key or pool code out to everyone you know is not – and you may be violating terms of your lease.

Let kids have fun safely.
Splashing and screaming is second nature to children, but you and your kids still have to be courteous and considerate of other pool-goers. If your kids start to get rowdy, run at the pool, or get overzealous with the splashing, have them take a break until they have calmed down.

Don’t take your eyes off your kids because this could allow annoying behavior (everyone wants and deserves a peaceful environment) and potentially be very dangerous.  Know your kids’ swimming ability and be with them at all times. You birthed ‘em; you’re responsible. Here’s a great article about kids and pool safety.

Be nice.
Be cool at the pool; treat others with kindness and courtesy so everyone has a good experience in and around the swimming pool and sun deck.

Now get out there all you cool cats and enjoy some fun in the sun, tanning, swimming, and chillin’ poolside.

 

 

 

Energy Saving Tips For Winter

Winter Energy Savings Tips

Old Man Winter has come a’ knocking on our doors a bit early this year It’s a cold reminder to take steps to keep ourselves warm and cozy without breaking the bank paying for utilities. It’s especially important now, as inflation has driven up the cost of just about everything.

Start by taking a walk around your apartment. I know, I know, you know your apartment like the back of your hand. But this time, instead of admiring your decorating skills or making a checklist of cleaning chores to do, look closely at things that can affect your ability to keep your place comfortable even on the coldest days.

Furniture

Look at the placement of your furniture. Make sure all furnishings are away from heat registers and vents to allow for proper circulation. Check the areas behind your sofa, bed, dresser, and other large pieces to be sure they are not blocking precious warm airflow. A rule of thumb is to allow at least eight inches of space around your registers to ensure good air circulation.

Windows

Double check to make sure all windows are shut tightly. Locking your windows can provide an extra bit of snug fit. Even double paned windows can feel cold when it’s frigid outside. It is normal for windows and the area around them to feel cold to the touch since glass is not a good insulator.

A rolled towel on the windowsill can help the window feel less chilly especially if the window frame is metal.  Keep your blinds open on sunny days to let as much warmth in as possible, but do close them tightly once the sun goes down. Adding an extra layer such as a plastic barrier or a draft blocking curtain can really help. Insulated drapes and curtains are the best way to minimize the effect of this cold air on your apartment’s temperature. This can really help you save on energy expenses this winter.

If, after taking these steps, there are still noticeable drafts around your windows, please call your leasing office and request the maintenance crew come to check them out.

Doors

Check for drafts around any exit doors. If you feel a draft, you may need new weather stripping or a new door sweep. Your maintenance team can help you with that. Even with a good door sweep, you may still feel a bit of chilly air coming in.  A door snake can really make a difference in stopping this cold air from sneaking in.

Outlets

Cold air can also find it’s way into your home through the outlets and switch plates on exterior walls. Really! Fortunately, there’s a product for that (of course). You can also check with your utility company as some of them will provide these foam insulators at no charge.

Wall Air Conditioner Unit

If you have a wall AC unit, make sure the vent(s) are in the ‘closed’ position and that there is not air seeping in around the units.

Baseboard Registers

If you have baseboard registers, make sure the metal flap inside is lifted all the way up and that you can see inside the register. This flap acts as a vent; if it is resting down on the front panel, the heat cannot escape.

Thermostat

 If you have a forced air system, make sure your thermostat is set on ‘Heat’ and ‘Auto’. You can also be like my Dad and turn the heat down to 60 degrees at night. Sounds awful at first, but sleeping in a cool room in flannel jammies and under a warm comforter or cozy blanket can provide you with a surprisingly great night’s sleep while saving on your heating expense. Thanks, Dad, for this winter energy-saving tip!

Attire

You’ve heard the saying Dress For Success. In the winter, it becomes Dress For Warmth. Another winter energy-saving tips is to get cozy at home by wearing seasonal attire like wool sweaters, heavy shirts (flannel!), sweatshirts, warm pants, wooly socks, and fluffy slippers. Maybe a Snuggie?? Top this with a furry throw and you’ll be all set. Dress up/thermostat down/save money!

Fido & Fluffy

Let’s not forget our furry friends this winter! Make sure your pup or kitty has a cozy spot to snuggle in on chilly nights. Maybe that spot is your lap, or maybe it’s a cozy bed, a kitty cave, or a warm sweater.

Make my Dad proud, keep warm and cozy, save on your utility bills, and know that spring will come!

 

 

 

Heat

Want to improve energy savings in the winter? Here are some tips!

Fath Properties’ goal is to provide seventy (70) degree heat to all apartments where we control the heat.  The majority of residents find this to be a comfortable temperature, and it allows us to sensibly manage our costs and do our part to conserve energy.  If your apartment’s temperature is between sixty-nine (69) and seventy-one (71) degrees, your heating system is probably working fine.  Apartment temperatures will vary slightly from unit to unit.  If your apartment is cooler than seventy (70) degrees, and no other problems exist with the system, there are several things you can do to maximize the temperature:

  • Furniture or other items set in front of your heat registers or vents will keep the heat from circulating in the apartment. Please keep all items at least eight (8) inches away from registers or vents. Proper circulation is essential!
  • Make sure all windows and doors are tightly shut. If there are still heavy drafts around windows or gaps in doors, please call your leasing office to have this addressed.
  • Make sure the vent(s) on your wall unit air conditioner(s) are in the ‘closed’ position and that there is not air sweeping in around the units.
  • It is normal for windows and the area around them to feel cold to the touch since glass is not a good insulator. Heavy insulated drapes and curtains are the best way to minimize the effect of this cold air on the apartment temperature.
  • If you have baseboard registers, make sure the metal flap inside is lifted all the way up and that you can see inside the register. This flap acts as a vent; if it is resting down on the front panel, the heat cannot escape.
  • If you have a forced air system, make sure your thermostat is set on ‘Heat’ and ‘Auto’.
  • Finally, please dress for the season, i.e. sweaters, heavy shirts, and slacks. Few people are comfortable in T-shirts or shorts, even inside, in the winter.

If you have further questions or need service for your heat, please contact your community leasing office. We will be happy to send out a maintenance technician.