New York winters can be very harsh. It pays to be prepared for the inevitable. Remember all of my Queens, New York homeowners... an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of the cure!!
I've compiled this winter checklist JUST FOR YOU.
Inside you'll want to:
- Check furnace air filters each month during the heating season. Clean or replace as necessary.
- Consult your owner's manual for your hot water heater. Most recommend draining a dishpan full of water from the clean-out valve at the bottom of your hot water tank to control sediment build-up to maintain its efficiency.
- Check all fire extinguishers. Recharge or replace as necessary.
- Review family's escape and preparedness plans for fire and natural disaster.
- Check locks on doors and windows to ensure they are functioning properly.
- Make sure the basement floor drain's trap contains water. Refill as necessary.
- Throughout the winter, watch for excessive moisture build-up. Take necessary action whenever excessive build-up exists to prevent future maintenance and health problems.
- Test all faucets and monitor for signs of dripping. Change washers as needed.
- Check and clean drains in sinks, bathtubs, shower stalls and dishwasher.
- Test all plumbing shut-off valves to ensure they are in proper working order.
- Monitor windows and doors for cold air leaks or ice accumulation. Note any problems for repair or replacement in the spring.
- Check attic for frost accumulation. If there is excessive accumulation, it may require repair.
- Before installing indoor or outdoor seasonal lights, check all electrical cords, plugs and outlets for signs of wear. Test cords and plugs, if they feel warm to the touch or show any signs of wear, replace immediately.
Outside you'll want to:
- Test all outside lights and timers to make sure they are functioning properly.
- Before installing indoor or outdoor seasonal lights, check all electrical cords, plugs and outlets for signs of wear. Test cords and plugs, if they feel warm to the touch or show any signs of wear, replace immediately.
- Check roof for ice dams or icicles. If there is excessive staining or frost on the roof's underside or excessive ice accumulation on the roof itself, it may require repair.
I hope this list has been of value to you and will help you to keep warmer during the months ahead.
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