Questions? Just Ask!

Winterizing Your Home

Blazing orange, red, and yellow leaves are nature's tell-tale sign of cooler temperatures ahead.  Take an afternoon while the weather is still mild and prepare your home for winter.  Our tips will help you get on your way to a safe and happy winter season.

Heating and Cooling:
  • Call a professional to clean your ducts and to inspect your heating system.
  • Consider changing to a programmable thermostat.  Many models retail for less than $80 and could save your hundreds of dollars in 2009.
  • Don't forget the clothes dryer - clean the lint trap, remove and clean the exhaust hose to prevent fires.
  • If you have gas logs, please install a carbon monoxide detector near the fireplace. 
Exterior:
  • Check windows and doors for air leaks and drafts.  Invest in weather stripping to keep your home warmer.
  • Check the roof for worn out or cracked shingles and have them repaired.
  • Clean out the gutters.  The colorful autumn leaves often end up clogging gutters and downspouts and could lead to problems with water drainage.
  • Look at the flow of water from your downspouts - you may want to invest in extenders to direct water further away from your home's foundation.
  • Trim tree limbs that hang close to power lines, your roof, or another part of your house. 
Plumbing:
  • Locate the main water shut off for your home, in case of emergency.
  • Drain all garden hoses and check outdoor faucets for leaks.
  • Investigate an insulating bag for your water heater, especially if it is located in your garage where temperatures will be colder.
General Tips:
  • Buy a few bags of ice melt now and store them.  We've all seen the lines at the hardware store once a storm is actually predicted.
  • Check your fire extinguishers.  If they are out of date, replace them.
  • Prepare an emergency kit and make sure everyone in the house knows where to find it in case of a power outage.  
Lastly, enjoy this wonderful season that is upon us.  Preparing your home for winter is similar to preparing to host a large holiday meal - you make lists, assign tasks, and prepare as much as possible in advance.  This way, you can enjoy the festivities as they arrive.  Invest time in your home now, and enjoy the winter festivities without worry.