As the air gets colder and the frost begins to bite, the leaves start falling from the trees and reality hits everyone – winter is here. This winter make sure that you and your home are more prepared for the weather with these 9 tips!
Maintain your heating system
By hiring a technician to inspect your furnace and make it achieve its manufacturer-rated efficiency and the lowest possible carbon-monoxide leakage you will minimize the chance of your heating system breaking down on a freezing day and increase savings.
Organize your Garage
Many people do a spring cleaning of their homes and garage but you should aim to do one during the fall before winter as well! Simple organization like bringing your snow blower, shovels, and salt to the front of your garage will allow you to save time trying to search and dig out these winter essentials.
Remove Hoses and Shut Off Faucets
Faucets that are running in the winter can lead to pipe bursts and frozen ice in the pipes in your home. A simple fix is to remove and drain your hoses and store them in your garage or shed. Also, don’t forget to shut off all exterior faucets.
Clear out gutters
Clogged gutters can cause ice buildup and can be very dangerous to your home and your family. In the fall clean up any leaves or muck from your gutters and test the system with water to make sure there is no build up left.
Cover units outside
Your air-conditioner and barbeque need to be covered by a waterproof tarp and secured with rope to make sure that there is no water damage to the units throughout the course of the winter.
Store your furniture
As winter approaches its time for you to store away your furniture in your backyard that could get damaged by the weather. If the furniture is plastic or made up of a lightweight aluminium or soft wood you should remove them from the outdoors for the winter season.
Replace Filters
The filters on your vents can be very dirty if they are not cleaned at least once or twice a year which will make the air in your home mouldy and not fresh. Replacing your filters can decrease heating costs by allowing more hot air to circulate around your home and freshen the air. Read our post here for other tips to freshen your home up in the winter!
Closing and cleaning the pool
If you do not have an in ground pool that can freeze it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions about how to maintain your pool in the winter. A pool needs to be winterized correctly so that your pool is not damaged when summer comes so make sure you spend time researching how to winterize your pool.
Caulk windows and doors
Caulk is a material that keeps air and water out of your home and acts as a sealant which keeps your house warmer and saves you money in the winter! Purchase a caulk tube from any hardware store and ask a representative to help you find the correct caulk for your home.
As the chilly season starts take time when you still can to winterize your home. Take these 9 steps to ensure that your home and family are safe, healthy, and warm this winter season!
