PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR THE WINTER SEASON

You can feel it in the air.  Winter is around the corner. 

You're now cleaning the leaves and bringing out the shovels and collecting salt (I am...) ...

You've already disconnected the garden hose and put it away for the Winter.

Did you remember to turn the water off to the exterior?   

I forgot a couple of years ago, and had a pipe freeze/explode inside the wall ... so now I have one of those faucets that even if I forget, will not freeze (drains itself).

If you don't have one of those, however, you MUST drain that tap and turn off the water for the Season.

Here is a short list of some things you should look after every Winter:

- Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors (if they run on batteries)

- Check and clean or replace furnace air filters each month during the heating season

- Clean humidifier two or three times during the Winter Season

- Vacuum bathroom fan grille

- Vacuum smoke detectors

- Check all your fire extinguishers and replace if necessary

- Check fire escape routes and ensure family has good security habits (everyone should be aware of outside lighting, escape route, and where to meet in case of emergency)

- Check basement floor drain to ensure trap contains water (refill if necessary)

- Check your home for excessive moisture (condensation can cause damage over time and affect your health)

- Check all faucets. Fix drips... replace washers if necessary

- Run some water in laundry tub, if never used, to ensure water is kept in the trap

- Clean drains (dishwasher, washer, sinks, bathtubs, shower stalls, etc.)

- Check windows and doors for ice and cold air leaks. Clean and repair if necessary; or make note to fix in the Spring

- Check roof for ice or icicles. Hire someone to clean it up/fix, if necessary

- Keep snow off gas meters, vents and exhaust vents and basement windows

- If putting up Christmas lights, or any other outdoor lights, ensure they are safe. If anything is worn, replace it. If it feels warm to the touch, don't use it. Replace it.

Avoid costly fixes, by staying on top of this.  Make up a checklist for every season.

Pick one or two items to check/do every week.

Hire a qualified handyman for those tasks that are beyond your ability, or those that aren't safe.
Protect your investment.

Look after your home, and it will keep you safe and warm for many years to come.

If you need additional information, or a complete, comprehensive list, contact your local REALTOR; or you can email me directly, and I'll send you a copy.

Sylvie Conde, Broker  -  Your Toronto Realtor!
Sutton Group-Associates Realty Inc, Brokerage  416-966-0300
Independently Owned & Operated
sconde@sutton.com
www.sylvieconde.com
www.torontorealestatelife.com

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Anyone who is not a member and has a question or wishes to comment,
please email your questions or comments to me at:  sconde@sutton.com