Top 10 Ways To Properly Prepare Your Home For Winter

Top 10 Ways To Properly Prepare Your Home For Winter... 

Autumn is the ideal time to get your home ready for Winter, though if you haven’t done it yet-it’s never too late!

Here is how to keep your home warm all winter long:

A well maintained HVAC (Heating & Air) system will not only keep you warm, it will also save you on your utility bills.

1.            Replace your filters-This should be done monthly during the winter, will improve air flow & efficiency of       furnace.
2.            Have furnace serviced preferably by someone who will check for wear & tear they will also clean your vents, if necessary. If your system runs on propane or oil-have it filled, if needed.
3.       .    Reverse your ceiling fans to run clockwise so air circulates downward, this will reduce heating costs by 10%.
4.       .    check your insulation-keep the heat in by checking for and repairing leaks.
5.       .    Check your windows, especially hinges & slides for leaks, caulk the sides and joints.
6.       .    Cover Your Hot Water Heater tank with insulation blanket-will help it to run more efficiently.
7.            Prevent Pipes from freezing-according to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage from frozen pipes is among the costliest of claims with an average claim totaling more than $7,000. Drain exterior Faucets and disconnect hoses-store those in garage or shed, somewhere out of the elements. Cover exposes piping with pre-slit insulation foam which can be purchased from a Hardware store or Home Improvement store-use duct tape to secure. If you have a Summer home, or part of your home is not in use-shut off its water and drain plumbing system.
8.             Don’t forget to clean out your Gutters! This is huge! The effects of blocked gutters-if overloaded-they could fall off…overflowing water may spill out and increase chances of flooding around foundation and could get in basement if you have one. If water freezes it may expand and cause cracks in foundation. If the water freezes in the gutters and creates an ice damn-it can push against the roof and walls of home and increase chance of rot. Water can also stain exterior siding of home. Be sure to clean at least once a year-before the rain comes. (more often if home is surrounding by trees.)
9.            Have roof inspected by a Pro-replace missing shingles or other damage and have repaired. Check flashing, as well-around the chimney and repair leaks. Inspect foundation and seal places where small animals could get under home and clear all debris and plants away from home. Turn off Water supply to sprinkler system and remove water by blowing compressed air thru the lines. If have Water fixtures drain them and unplug pumps. Drain the gas from mower and put fuel stabilizer in tank.
10.             Keep Fireplace safe and in working order. Proper maintenance will help it work more efficiently and prevent it from becoming a Fire Hazard. Have it serviced, inspected and cleaned by a Pro. The frequency and type of service will depend on type of wood you burn/how often you use Your fireplace. Ensure Chimney is clear of any nests and animals-and the draft is clear of debris. Make sure flu damper works and can be opened and closed. Ensure fire bricks are in good shape and repair open mortar joints immediately. 

Now You are ready for all inclement weather to come!

…Until next year! J 

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