Every season presents unique maintenance challenges and winter is no different.  As temperatures drop outside and the furnace kicks on, there are tasks every home owner should complete.  Read on to find out what you can do to ensure you are comfortable and safe through the coldest months of the year.

Weather-Proof

Seal Gaps: Caulk around windows and doors to prevent drafts.

Insulation:  Check your attic for proper insulation.  The current industry standard is 10 - 14 inches. Especially in older homes, the insulation may not be up to par.  Also check for any gaps.

Clean Gutters: Remove any leaf and other debris.

Pipes, Hose Bibs and Sprinklers:  Turn off the supply to outdoor pipes. Drain or blow them out and wrap the exposed piping.

Deck and Patio:  Put away or cover furniture, weather proof any wood surfaces.

Landscaping:  After leaves fall is a great time to trim back limbs on trees and bushes away from the house.  Removing leaves from lawns is customary, but try to opt for composting rather than sending it off to the landfill.  Use this link to learn more about leaf composting: How to compost your leaves

Interior Maintenance

HVAC System:  Have your furnace professionally maintenanced and cleaned.  Remember to check your filter frequently throughout the winter months and change it as soon as needed.  Having your system maintenanced offers many benefits, use this link to explore this topic further:  Benefits of Furnace Maintenance

Chimney and Fireplace:  Have your chimney and fireplace inspected and cleaned and check the damper.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors:  Especially important in the winter months, check your detectors and replace their batteries and ensure placement in your home is correct.  Follow this link to learn more about proper placement in your home: Where to place Carbon Monoxide detectors in your home

Drafts:  Use weatherstripping around doors to ensure the cold winter wind is kept out.

Additional Tips

• Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with supplies like flashlights, batteries, water, and non-perishable food.
• Winterize Your Car: Check fluids, tires, and battery for winter readiness.
• Insulate Your Garage Door: Reduce heat loss from the garage to the house.
• Consider a Programmable Thermostat: Save energy by adjusting temperatures when you're away or sleeping.

Professional Help

• Roof Inspection: If you're unsure about your roof's condition, hire a professional inspector.
• Heating System Tune-up: Schedule a professional tune-up to ensure your system is running efficiently.
• Chimney Cleaning: Hire a certified chimney sweep to clean and inspect your chimney.

Stay warm and safe this winter season!