10 Tips To Winterize Your Home
The leaves are falling and it's time to get your home ready for winter. Below are a few tips to help you prepare for the colder weather:
1. Check Gutters: Clean out leaves and other debris and check the downspout is clear. Repair any damaged or loose guttering. Check for leaks and seal where necessary.
2. Winterize sprinkler systems: With the drop in temperature now is a good time to have your irrigation system blown out. You will need a compressor to do this yourself or you can hire a landscape or irrigation system company to do this for you. At the same time shut off outdoor faucets and cover with freeze proof faucet covers.
3. Exterior Lights: If your outdoor lights are controlled by timers then adjust them to allow for the darker evenings,
4. Heating System Service: Having your furnace and heating checked and serviced ann
ually avoids problems as the weather turns colder. Don't forget to change the filter as well.
5. Check Smoke Detectors: Check operation and replace batteries. It is recommended that smoke detectors are located on every level of the the house and especially on the ceiling near sleeping areas.
6. Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Again replace batteries and check for functionality. They should be installed close to potential sources of carbon monoxide, such as oil or gas burning appliances, i.e.water heater, furnaces etc.They should be in earshot of sleeping and living areas of the house.
7. Maintain Your Pipes: Pipes need to be wrapped with heating tape every winter and pay special attention to unfinished spaces such as garages if they contain exposed pipes. Repair immediately any pipes that have cracks and leaks this will save you money on costly repairs later. It is recommended to keep your house warm - at least 65 degrees.
8. Plumbing: Know the location of your pipes and how to switch off the water. The faster you can turn off the water the better chance of preventing pipe bursts. Check faucets for leaks and replace washers if necessary.
9. Clean Vents: Remove dust from vents, baseboard heaters and cold-air returns. A major cause of indoor pollutants is a dust build-up in ducts.
10. Pest Control: Do a check of crawlspaces and attics for unwanted guests. These are a favorite place for them to hangout, it offers protection and warmth. The insulation in the attic can become nesting material. Make sure to repair or replace screens behind vents, locate and repair any other locations they may be gaining access to your home. Don't forget to check under appliances and kitchen cabinets for evidence that they may have taken up residence in your home.
If you have any tips that you would like to share then please leave a comment below.
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