Brr, it’s that time of the year again- Winter! Don’t let the cold weather and snow give your wallet a frosty bite. We’ve got you covered with some of our top tips to winterize your home. Keep those energy bills low and your home safe and sound all winter long!
1. Check your furnace. It’s a good idea to do some basic maintenance to help keep your heating system running smoothly through the winter. Check your furnace filter, and change it if it looks dirty.
2. Switch your ceiling fan direction. Now that the weather is cooler, flip your ceiling fans’ reverse switches so that the fans move in a clockwise direction. This creates an updraft that pushes the warm air that rises toward the ceiling back down into the room. This means you may be able to turn down the thermostat and save on your heating bills.
3. Winterize your outside faucets. In cold weather, water in exterior pipes can freeze and cause pipes to burst. Don’t forget to disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets. If your exterior faucets have shutoff valves (usually in a mechanical room), it’s recommended you turn them off, as well. Then, release any water remaining in the pipe by opening and closing the outside tap. You can also help protect exterior faucets with an insulated cover.
4. Clean out your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to issues like water damage and ice dams. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are cleared of leaves, sticks and other debris before the cold winter snow really starts falling this season — whether you handle this chore yourself or call a professional.
5. Check your smoke and CO2 detectors. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are crucial for ensuring household safety, especially in the winter. Keep the detectors clean and free of any dust or debris that may block its vents. Test the alarm by pressing its “test” button to ensure proper function. If the alarm doesn’t sound, replace its battery or check if it is broken or expired. If the unit still fails to work, it’s time to replace the alarm entirely.
6. Weatherproof windows and doors. As the weather gets colder, it’s essential to keep your home warm and cozy. Drafts through windows and doors are common culprits for letting cold air in. To fix this issue, replace any weatherstripping that might be damaged around the windows and doors. Use caulking to seal any gaps around the windows and also any cracks in the siding. Applying window film is an excellent option for keeping the cold out if you don’t have newer, energy-efficient windows. Lastly, installing a door sweep at the bottom of your door can also help keep drafts from entering your home.
