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Seattle Property Management- 10 Tips to Winterize your Home

By Dave Poletti

Services for Real Estate Pros with Dave Poletti & Associates

November 13, 2012 11:21 PM

As winter approaches and colder weather is among us, if you have not already, it is a good time to start thinking about winterizing your home or rental property. Here are 10 Quick Tips:

1.) Clean the Gutters- After the leaves have been removed, check to make sure there are no leaks in the downspouts (by running a hose to clean out the remaining debris) and check that the gutters are not misaligned and that all are routed away from the house’s foundation.

2.) Block Leaks- Common areas are recessed lighting, window and door frames and electrical outlets and foundations. Even a small crack on the exterior of the house is worth sealing up. Not only may it prevent water leaking in, but also insects.

3.) Insulate the Attic- This may be costly initially, but you will have significant savings in energy costs. If you can see the ceiling joists in your attic, then you likely do not have enough insulation. 12 inches is recommended in the attic, and a typical ceiling joist is 10-11 inches.

4.) Check the Furnace-Make sure that the furnace works, and it is a good idea to have your furnace cleaned and tuned annually. Make sure to change your furnace filters regularly.

5.) Check your Ducts- Check that all ductwork is well-connected and insulated and consider getting your ducts cleaned for better air quality.

6.) Windows- A significant amount of heat can escape through old windows. Consider budgeting for window replacement in the future when you are financially able to do so.

7.) Chimney Cleaned- Check that your chimney has been recently cleaned prior to using your fireplace. When not using the fireplace, keep the damper closed to keep cool air out. You can also buy a protective cap for your chimney to keep out foreign objects.

8.) Reverse your Fan- By changing your ceiling fan to rotating in a clockwise fashion, warm air will be pushed downward and forced to recirculate.

9.) Wrap the Pipes- Insulate your spigots (you can do this with Styrofoam cups with a screw attachment that are relatively inexpensive to purchase from your local hardware store).

10.) Check your Alarms- Change out batteries in the smoke detectors in your home and also in the carbon monoxide detectors (as applicable). Test to make sure they work. A smoke detector should be replaced at least every 10 years

*You may require the assistance of a Professional to complete these winterization tasks*