Hi Friends!
It’s that time of the year again and it’s time to get the house ready to withstand winter weather. Tackling a few maintenance tasks now can prevent future issues from occurring. Here are seven (7) tips to help you get prepared:
1. Clean the Gutters: Before those leaves fall, clean your gutters and cover them with a “gutter mesh” or install a “gutter guard” to keep them free of debris and leaves. It is important to make sure that your gutter system and downspouts are properly diverted away from the foundation.
2. Furnace Checkup: No one likes to have the furnace malfunction during a snowstorm. So, now’s the time to schedule a furnace checkup and make sure it is ready-to-keep you cozy all winter long. Consider installing a programmable thermostat or “smart thermostat” to help save you money on rising heating costs. Most of these “smart thermostats” will require internet with a wi-fi connection; this will allow you to adjust your home temperature directly from your smart phone.
Also, remember to change the furnace filter to keep your furnace running efficiently. Airflow blockage caused by a dirty filter raises the temperature within the HVAC equipment, causing it to overheat.
3. Safety and Fire Checks: Fall is the reminder to change batteries on smoke detectors; and please don’t forget about installing a carbon monoxide (CO) detector. I have recently purchased a combined smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detector that offers a 10-year battery life.
Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher rated for all fire types (look for an A-B-C rating on the label). At a minimum, keep one near the kitchen; and have one located on every floor. Annually, check the indicator on the pressure gauge to make sure the extinguisher is charged. Prepare yourself and family on how to use the extinguisher and have a fire escape plan in place.
Clean the lint from your clothes dryer. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, dryers and washing machines cause an average of 15,970 fires each year, with dryers causing 92% of them.
4. Repair Walkways: Inspect your driveway, steps and walkways to avoid any tripping hazards. By filling-in cracks and tightening your hand-railings, this can make your walkways safer, especially when they become icy.
5. Seal up air leaks: According to US Department of Energy, air sealing an old or especially drafty house can save more than 20% on your heating and cooling costs. Please visit this website to learn more about sealing and caulking your home: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherstripping
6. Protect outside faucets from freezing: Remove all hoses from outside faucets and store them for winter. If you don’t have shut-off valves and your faucets are not “freeze proof”, you can purchase styrofoam faucet covers for extra protection.
7. Inspect Roof and Chimney: Inspect your shingles for any wind or hail damage, even use binoculars to inspect if necessary. Look for damage to metal flashings, in and around vents and get missing or chipped brick around the chimney repaired. Scan roof for missing, lifted or curled shingles. Repair and fix any issues prior to winter.
Owning your own home can be a big responsibility, preventative and proper maintenance can allow for easy living. Winter weather can be harsh on your home, seeking professional companies to repair issues is highly recommended.
Thanks for reading.
Hope to see you soon,
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