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It’s technically possible to install loose-fill cellulose insulation without a blower, but it’s much more time-consuming, tedious, and dangerous. You’ll need to wear the proper protective coverings to handle the cellulose after it’s been doused in boric acid; use a shovel when you can to transport the material from the bag into the wall cavity.

That said, if you purchase cellulose materials at a home improvement store, ask if they rent out blowers for free or at a discounted rate. In many cases, if you buy the material from the store, they’ll rent out the blower at no extra cost.

Pipes in your house can freeze after six hours or so if you lose power and temperatures are below freezing. You can prepare for potential power outages by winterizing your pipes with insulation. Also, whenever temperatures drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, turn your faucets on very low and leave them dripping until temperatures rise.

Garden blankets and frost cloths are the best things to use to protect trees and plants from frost. They are made from polypropylene fabric, which is lightweight, breathable, and dries fast. If you can’t get garden blankets or frost cloths before the freeze, you should use lightweight blankets, sheets, or towels.

Yes, insulating ductwork in a crawl space is a worthwhile investment, especially if you live in a colder climate or run your air conditioning for most of the year. Uninsulated ducts can lose up to 30% of their heating and cooling efficiency, which can significantly impact your electricity bill. The project is a relatively small investment and typically only takes a few hours. It's a particularly simple add-on if you are already hiring someone to insulate the entire crawl space. An added benefit is that insulated ducts put off less hot or cold air, making them less attractive to pests.