Part of being a homeowner is being prepared when the weather can impact your house. While it is a good idea to be ready for any season, winterizing is probably the most important due to the dangers presented when temperatures drop below freezing. Savvy homeowners will start winterizing before the cold weather arrives to avoid being without heat or dealing with freezing pipes.
Taking the time to ensure that your home is properly winterized before the temperatures drop is vital for several reasons. Not only do you want your home to be warm and cozy when it’s cold outside, but adequately winterizing it can help save you money on your utility bills.
Here are some areas in your home that may need attention this winter.
Cold air can enter your home, and warm air can escape if there are cracks around your doors and windows. Sealing your windows and doors with caulking will help prevent heat leaks. Also, consider installing insulating window film for your door and window frames for better heat retention and lower utility bills.
Having your HVAC company perform a preventative maintenance inspection and system cleaning before the winter season can ensure you have a safe and warm home. Not only will your system be clean and primed to run efficiently to keep heating costs down, but any problems that may be a concern during the winter months can be identified and fixed before cold weather sets in.
If you have drafts from windows and doors, this can wreak havoc on your home during cold weather. Apply energy-efficient curtains or window coverings to help reduce the draft. In addition, weatherproof strips on windows and doors can help prevent drafts, as will installing double-pane windows for draft-free rooms and better energy efficiency.
Pipes exposed to freezing temperatures, like those in the basement, garage, or attic, are at risk of freezing and bursting. Installing insulation to protect the pipes from freezing is a good idea to prevent them from being exposed to the cold weather and the issues it brings. You can also allow water to drip from your inside faucets during freezing temps to help prevent pipes from becoming frozen.
Regular maintenance on your roof and gutters helps to keep your home damage-free during cold weather. Inspect your roof (or hire someone) to look for problems that may be an issue in the winter, such as missing shingles that could allow water in. Also, be sure to clean your gutters in the fall because clogged gutters can cause damage to your home during winter weather from heavy snowfall or water.
If you plan to burn fires this winter, having your fireplace inspected and cleaned for the season is essential. Ensuring your fireplace is in good working condition can avoid fire hazards. It’s also important to properly maintain your fireplace to prevent exposure to toxic carbon monoxide gas.
Maintaining your heating system, sealing leaks, covering drafty doors and windows, closing the fireplace damper, and adjusting your heat setting are smart energy-efficient practices that can keep your home warmer at a lower cost.
Winter storms are no joke. Homeowners should have a heat source backup plan for a winter emergency. From extra blankets, winter coats, and sleeping bags to dry firewood, a kerosene heater, or a gas fireplace – part of your home winterizing plan should include these items to ensure you stay warm and safe in your home should you lose heat during a snow or ice storm.
Winterizing your home before the cold weather sets in is a smart and efficient way to maximize savings through the winter months. Taking the time and winterizing your home will save you money and ensure you are warm and comfortable all season long.
