Winter Home Maintenance To Do Right Now
The days are shorter, the weather is colder, and the holidays are over. Winter has officially arrived! While some people may love winter, others may not be so fond of it. One thing that everyone can agree on is that winter can be a challenging time for homeowners. With so many things to consider when it comes to keeping the home in good shape, here are our top winter home maintenance tips that will help keep the home in good condition all season long.
1) Inspect THE Heating System:
Before the cold months arrive, it’s important to inspect your heating system. This can include checking for any drafts or air leaks, inspecting all of the vents and filters, and making sure that the thermostat is working properly. It’s also a good idea to get an annual tune-up from a professional if possible.
Remember, electric water heater replacement is an important part of winter home maintenance. If your water heater is more than ten years old, it may be time to replace it with a newer, more efficient model.
2) Inspect THE Roof:
Winter brings with it heavy snowfall, icy rains, and strong winds. To ensure that your roof remains in good condition during these months, inspect your roof before winter arrives and make any necessary repairs. This includes checking the flashing around vents and chimneys; inspecting shingles for damage or missing pieces; cleaning the gutters; and removing debris from valleys between rooftops.
Your roof can also benefit from a good winter cleaning. Cleaning your roof can help prevent ice dams, which are caused when the snow melts and refreezes along the edges of the roof.
3) Check THE Windows:
Cold drafts coming in through windows can make your home uncomfortable during winter. To keep your house warm and cozy, inspect all of the windows in your home for any air leaks that may exist around them and seal them up with weatherstripping or caulking if necessary.
Your windows can also benefit from a good cleaning. Cleaning your windows with vinegar and water solution can help make them more energy efficient during the cold winter months.
4) Insulate THE Home:
Adding extra insulation to areas such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces can help keep warm air in and cold air out of your home. This will not only help you save money on energy bills, but it will also make your home more comfortable during the winter months. You can also consider replacing your windows with energy-efficient models.
5) Winterize THE Home’s Plumbing:
One of the most important winter home maintenance tips is to ensure that your home’s plumbing is ready for colder temperatures. This means checking all exposed pipes for any cracks or leaks and shutting off the water valves to outdoor faucets. You should also consider exposed insulating pipes and draining hoses from washing machines and dishwashers.
6) Check THE Fireplace:
If you have a fireplace in your home, it’s important to check it before using it during the winter months. Make sure that there are no obstructions in the chimney and that the firebox is clean. You should also inspect all of the parts of your fireplace and make sure they are working properly.
7) Test THE Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:
It’s important to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors a few times throughout the winter months to make sure they are working properly. This will help keep you and your family safe in the event of a fire or carbon monoxide leak. You can also consider adding additional detectors to areas like kitchens, garages, and basements.
8) Clean THE Gutters:
Cleaning your gutters before winter arrives can help prevent snow and ice buildup along the edges of your roof. This can help reduce the risk of water damage that may occur due to freezing temperatures or heavy rains. Make sure to inspect all of the downspouts as well and clear any blockages that may exist in them.
9) Prepare THE Lawn and Garden:
Before winter arrives, it’s important to prepare your lawn and garden for colder weather. This includes raking leaves off of the grass, trimming back dead branches from trees, removing weeds from flower beds, and mulching around plants. Doing these simple tasks now can help ensure that your lawn and garden are in good shape when spring rolls around.
10) Clean THE Outdoor Furniture:
Don’t forget to clean any outdoor furniture you may have before winter arrives. This will help protect it from weather damage and keep it looking its best for the following year. Washing chairs, tables, and other outdoor furniture with a mild detergent or soap can help remove dirt, dust, and pollen that has accumulated over the summer months. After cleaning them off thoroughly, make sure to store them away in a dry place to prevent further damage from moisture or cold temperatures.
11) Stock Up on Winter Supplies:
Make sure you stock up on some essential winter supplies before temperatures start to drop. This includes things like firewood, flashlights, batteries, and emergency kits. Having these items on hand will help ensure you are prepared for any unexpected winter storms or power outages that may occur during the season.
12) Test THE Sump Pump:
If you have a sump pump in your home, it’s important to test it before winter arrives. Make sure the pump is working properly and that all of the hoses and connections are secure. You should also consider adding a backup power source to your sump pump in case of any power outages or backups during cold weather.
13) Bleed THE Radiators:
If you have a radiator heating system, it’s important to bleed your radiators before winter. This will help ensure that they are working properly and can keep your home warm during the colder months. Make sure to follow all of the instructions on how to safely bleed your radiators before attempting the task yourself.
It’s important to take care of any necessary winter preparations early on in the season. This will help ensure that your home stays warm and comfortable throughout the winter months, as well as make sure you are prepared for any unexpected weather events or power outages. By following these simple steps, you can make sure that winter is a safe and enjoyable time for your family.
