With colder weather around the corner and the urge to cozy up inside, taking care of a few crucial home tasks now will help protect your property from winter's chill. Below is an updated checklist of essential to-dos and smart tips to prepare your home.
- Insulate Water Pipes: To avoid costly damage from freezing, ensure all exposed plumbing is wrapped or insulated.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Keep flashlights, fresh batteries, and emergency supplies easily accessible. If you rely on them, stock up on firewood and fuel for a generator.
- Service Your Heating System: Change your furnace's air filters and have the heating ducts cleaned or replaced as needed to ensure peak efficiency.
- Adjust Ceiling Fans: Set ceiling fan blades to spin in a clockwise direction to push warm air near the ceiling back down into the room.
- Inspect and Seal Drafts: Check windows and doors for gaps and drafts. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any leaks, which will conserve energy and keep the heat in.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clear all debris from your gutters to allow melted snow and ice to drain properly, preventing potential roof or fascia damage.
- Maintain Fireplace and Chimney: Schedule a professional inspection and cleaning of your fireplace and chimney to ensure they are safe to use all season long.
- Store Outdoor Hoses and Faucets: Disconnect, drain, and store all outdoor hoses. Turn off the water supply to exterior spigots and drain them to prevent freezing and bursting. If you don’t have that option, use freeze caps.
I hope these preparations make for a safe and comfortable winter in your home. Please don't hesitate to contact The Hume Group if you have any questions about current market conditions or are considering buying or selling a home this season.
