Winter is quickly approaching, and it’s time to prepare your home. Avoid being stuck with a broken furnace when the temperatures begin to plummet. Prepping for the winter may take some time, but it’s worth it in the end. Below, you’ll find winter maintenance tips all homeowners should know.
Clean Out the Gutters
Your gutters fill up with leaves and debris during the fall, especially if you have trees close to your home. Windstorms can blow loose twigs, leaves, and other debris into the gutters without you knowing. Take a small rake to comb out the leaves easily. If you’re uncomfortable climbing a ladder, hire a professional to get the job done right.
Proper gutter cleaning is crucial to home maintenance. Debris can clog the gutters, causing flooding around the interior and exterior of your home. The excess water will create damage to your foundation and siding.
Inspect Your Heating System
Tune-ups and inspections for your furnace should happen every year. It’s important to have a professional come out before the first frost and snowfall. A professional will perform preventative maintenance and check for safety issues so that you don’t have a problem halfway through winter. Ensure you’re replacing your filter monthly.
Prep for Snow and Ice
Ensure your shovels and snowblower are ready for the season. Service your snowblower if it’s not working, and replace any broken shovels. Have enough ice-melting salt to get you through the cold season. Also, shut down any outdoor faucets to prevent ice formation and water leaks.
Check for Drafty Areas
Drafts and leaks can drive up your energy bills as the warm air escapes through the windows, doors, and attic. You can call a company to come out and perform a home energy audit to pinpoint the problem areas in your home.
You should know that your home’s insulation is a key factor in how much money you spend on your heating and energy bills. Properly insulating your home before winter will ensure you see savings all season.
Follow the above winter maintenance tips all homeowners should know for a cozy and comfortable season. The temperatures may dip, but you and your family won’t feel the effects.
