As winter approaches, it’s time to make sure your home is ready to handle the colder temperatures, snow, and ice. Properly winterizing your home not only helps protect it from potential damage but can also save you money by improving energy efficiency. Here's a handy checklist to help you prepare your home for the winter months.
1. Add Weatherstripping to Doors and Windows
Preventing cold air from entering your home and keeping warm air inside is key to reducing heating costs. Adding weatherstripping to doors and windows is an easy and effective way to seal drafts. Consider installing door sweeps at the bottom of exterior doors to block out the cold air—this simple fix can make a big difference in maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and lowering your energy bills.
2. Inspect and Clean Your Fireplace
If you plan to cozy up by the fire this winter, make sure your fireplace is in good condition. Over time, soot, creosote, and even animal nests can build up in your chimney, increasing the risk of a fire. Before lighting that first fire of the season, hire a professional chimney sweep to give your chimney a thorough cleaning and inspection. This ensures it’s safe to use throughout the winter.
3. Clean Your Gutters
Clogged gutters can lead to water damage when melting snow has nowhere to drain. As soon as the last leaves have fallen, it’s time to clean out the gutters. Clear debris allows water to flow properly and prevents ice dams from forming. For a long-term solution, consider installing gutter guards to minimize future cleanings.
4. Protect Outdoor Furniture and BBQs
Snow and ice can wreak havoc on outdoor furniture, grills, and other items left outside during the winter. If possible, store these items in a garage, basement, or shed. If storage space is limited, invest in protective covers to shield your belongings from the elements. Remember to close the valve and disconnect the propane tank from gas grills, and always store the tank outdoors for safety.
5. Make Your Furnace More Efficient
Your furnace will be working hard to keep your home warm this winter, and it’ll do a better job with a clean air filter. Dirty filters obstruct airflow and cause your furnace to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns. Replacing the filter every three months (or more often if needed) will ensure your furnace operates efficiently and lasts longer.
6. Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing
Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive water damage to your home. To prevent this, drain any outdoor water lines, such as those in sprinkler systems, pool lines, and garden hoses. For outdoor faucets with shut-off valves, make sure the valves are closed and the faucets are drained. Adding insulated covers to exterior faucets can also help protect them from freezing temperatures.
7. Prune Tree Branches
Heavy snow and ice can cause tree branches to break, potentially damaging your roof, siding, or even a neighbor’s property. To avoid roof damage and leaks, trim any branches that hang over your home. If the job is too large or dangerous, hire a professional arborist to handle it for you.
8. Reverse the Direction of Ceiling Fans
During the colder months, you can make your home feel warmer by simply reversing the direction of your ceiling fans. When the blades turn clockwise, the fan pushes warm air from the ceiling back down into the room, helping to keep you comfortable without cranking up the heat. It’s a small adjustment that can make a noticeable difference.
By following this winterization checklist, you'll protect your home from winter weather, increase energy efficiency, and reduce the risk of costly repairs. Take the time now to prepare for the season ahead, and you can enjoy a warm and worry-free winter in your cozy home.
If you have any questions or need recommendations for local services, feel free to reach out!
