Preparing Your Home for Colder Months

A Warm Welcome to Winter

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, preparing your home for winter becomes more important. Winterizing now can help you avoid unexpected issues, save on energy bills, and keep your home cozy and secure. Here are five practical tips to get your home ready for the colder months ahead:

1. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are notorious for letting cold air sneak in, which can significantly affect your heating efficiency and raise your energy bills. Inspect your windows and doors for any gaps or drafts, and consider the following solutions:

• Caulking and Weatherstripping: Apply caulk around window frames and add weatherstripping to doors to seal any leaks.
• Insulating Film: For older windows, apply an insulating film to reduce heat loss. This is a cost-effective and simple way to increase energy efficiency.
• Door Sweeps: Adding a door sweep to the bottom of exterior doors helps keep cold air out and warm air in.

2. Service Your Heating System

Your heating system is the heart of your home during winter, so give it the attention it needs to keep you warm all season.

• Schedule a Professional Inspection: Annual maintenance by a professional technician can help ensure your heating system runs efficiently. This includes inspecting your furnace or heat pump, checking for leaks, and cleaning any components as needed.
• Replace Filters: Clean or replace your heating system's air filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak use. A clean filter improves airflow and reduces strain on your system, saving energy.
• Bleed Radiators: If you have radiators, bleed them to release any trapped air, which helps ensure they heat effectively.

3. Insulate Pipes and Check Your Plumbing

Frozen pipes can lead to costly damage, but with a little prep, you can avoid potential plumbing headaches.

• Wrap Pipes in Insulation: Focus on exposed pipes in areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces. Pipe insulation is affordable and can prevent freezing.
• Drain Exterior Faucets: Disconnect and drain garden hoses, then shut off and drain outdoor faucets. If you have sprinklers, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to winterize them as well.
• Check for Leaks: Inspect for any signs of leaks, as even minor ones can freeze and expand, causing pipes to burst.

4. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Fall leaves and debris can clog your gutters, leading to water backup and potential ice dams. Keeping gutters clear helps direct water away from your home and prevents damage.

• Clear Out Debris: Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from gutters and downspouts to keep water flowing freely.
• Check for Proper Drainage: Make sure downspouts direct water at least 3 feet away from your foundation. Extenders can help with this.
• Inspect for Damage: Check for cracks or sagging sections that may need repair before winter’s heavy rain or snow arrives.

5. Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Winter weather can bring unexpected challenges, so make sure you’re prepared for anything with the right tools and supplies.

• Buy Ice Melt and Shovels Early: Stock up on salt, sand, or eco-friendly ice melt, along with a sturdy snow shovel. Buying early can help you avoid the rush once the first snowfall hits.
• Prepare for Power Outages: Keep a supply of batteries, blankets, and flashlights on hand in case of a power outage. For extended outages, consider a portable generator to keep essential systems running.
• Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Winter is when we rely most on heating systems, so ensure smoke and CO detectors are working properly by replacing batteries and testing them regularly.

Prepping your home for the winter doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it can make a big difference in your comfort, safety, and energy costs. Following these tips helps ensure that you’re not only ready for the cold but that your home remains a cozy refuge all season long.

For more homeowner tips, contact Results Realty and Auction at (573) 341-8200.