Winterizing your home is something that you should prepare for before the cold of winter actually sets in. You don’t want to wake up one day with below freezing temperatures only to discover that your furnace that hasn’t been used since last winter isn’t functional. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your home in optimal shape for the upcoming season.
Clean the Gutters
The leaves start falling and look pretty in the yard, but they’re also clogging up your gutters. Gutters fill with leaves, twigs and other dirt or debris during the summer months and should be cleaned out for proper drainage. Clogged gutters can eventually lead to water finding its way inside. Be proactive and clean them before you end up having to repair costly water damage.
Seal the Leaks
Now is the time if you haven’t already to look for leaks and seal them up. Leaks occur in areas that aren’t properly sealed such as older windows or around older doorways. Insulate cracks with caulk to keep the cold air out and warm in. Letting cold air in makes your heating system work harder and will cost you more in heating costs through the season.
Check the Furnace
Have your furnace inspected before the cold sets in. Call to have it checked out and professionally cleaned by a company like Knight Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. Sediment has a tendency to build up over time and can impact functionality. Change the filter if it hasn’t been done already. If your furnace is older it might be time to look into an energy efficient model for long-term savings.
Change the Lights
Winter means that it is getting dark sooner and you need to see. Check your outside lights and replace them if necessary with energy-efficient floodlights or LEDs that are resistant to snow and water. Lights with motion sensors can save on electricity by only turning on when necessary. Ensure you purchase Energy Star products for even more savings.
Clean the Ducts
Ducting is frequently out of sight and out of mind since it’s in the attic or basement. Clogged and dirty ducts can reduce efficiency in your HVAC system. You can save yourself hundreds in heating costs over the years.
Don’t let winter take you by surprise. Prepare ahead of time so you’re ready when the cold sets in. You won’t regret it when the big storm hits and you’re comfortably watching it from your couch sipping on cocoa.