Whether you believe it or not, this Saturday, September 23rd, marks the arrival of fall, and it's wise to prepare your home before the chill sets in.
Your house is the most valuable thing you own, so you should look after it, especially if you're planning on staying there for a long time. It's also where your family lives, so doing regular upkeep is important to keep it safe and comfy.
Here are some tips to prevent potential problems like frozen pipes and high heating bills:
Inspect and seal windows and doors:
- Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any gaps.
- Consider adding or upgrading insulation around doors and windows.
- Install storm windows or use window insulation film to improve energy efficiency.
Service your heating system:
- Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance for your heating system (furnace, boiler, or heat pump).
- Replace or clean filters regularly, ideally every 1-3 months.
- Make sure your thermostat is working correctly and set it to a comfortable but energy-efficient temperature.
Clean and inspect chimneys and fireplaces:
- If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, have it professionally cleaned and inspected.
- Ensure the damper is working correctly to prevent drafts when not in use.
Check for roof and gutter issues:
- Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles and repair them to prevent leaks.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams, which can damage your roof and lead to water leaks.
Winterize outdoor plumbing:
- Drain and disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets.
- Insulate outdoor pipes to prevent freezing and potential bursts.
Prepare your home's exterior:
- Store outdoor furniture, grill, and other items to protect them from the winter elements.
- Trim tree branches that could potentially damage your home during winter storms.
Stock up on winter supplies:
- Purchase and store a sufficient supply of winter essentials, including rock salt or ice melt for sidewalks and driveways, as well as snow shovels or a snow blower.
- Make sure you have an adequate supply of firewood if you use a wood-burning stove or fireplace.
Insulate attics and basements:
- Add insulation to your attic and basement if needed, as these areas are prone to heat loss.
- Seal any gaps and cracks in these areas to prevent drafts.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors:
- Check and replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are in working order.
Prepare an emergency kit:
- Create an emergency kit that includes items like flashlights, candles, blankets, non-perishable food, and a battery-powered radio in case of power outages.
Programmable Thermostat:
- Consider installing a programmable thermostat if you don't already have one. It can help you save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature when you're not at home or when you're sleeping.
Reverse ceiling fans:
- Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans to clockwise. This will help push warm air down from the ceiling and distribute it more evenly throughout the room.
Insulate water heater and pipes:
- Consider insulating your water heater with a water heater blanket to reduce heat loss.
- Insulate exposed hot water pipes to prevent heat loss and save on water heating costs.
Test backup generators:
- If you have a backup generator, test it to ensure it's in good working condition in case of power outages during winter storms.
Check for pest entry points:
- Inspect your home for potential entry points for rodents and other pests seeking warmth during the winter. Seal any cracks or gaps in your home's exterior to keep them out.
By taking these steps to prepare your home for the cold winter months in the fall, you can increase your comfort, save on energy costs, and minimize the risk of weather-related problems and emergencies.
If your mortgage needs maintenance this fall, call or email Fred and Martin Mortgages. It’s free, and could save you thousands.
Fred and Martin