As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, it's important to make sure your home is ready for the colder months ahead. Winter-proofing your home can help prevent damage from freezing temperatures and snow, as well as keep your family warm and comfortable. So, here are some tips and tricks to make sure your home survives this winter.
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Insulating Your Home
One of the most important things you can do to prepare your home for winter is to make sure it is well-insulated. Insulation helps keep warm air inside your home and cold air outside, which can save you money on your heating bills.
If your home is not well insulated, consider adding insulation to your attic, walls, and floors. You can also use draft stoppers on doors and windows to prevent warm air from escaping.
Sealing Air Leaks
Another way to keep warm air inside and cold air out is to seal any air leaks in your home. Air leaks can occur around windows and doors, as well as through electrical outlets, plumbing, and ductwork.
To seal these leaks, you can use caulk and weather-stripping. These materials are inexpensive and easy to use, and they can help save you money on your heating bills.
Checking Your Heating System
As winter approaches, it's a good idea to have your heating system inspected and serviced. An HVAC technician can check for any potential issues and make sure your furnace or boiler is running efficiently.
You may find that your house needs a heating repair, which is particularly important if your heating system is over 10 years old. Having it serviced can therefore prevent breakdowns and keep you and your family warm throughout the winter.
Cleaning Gutters
The last thing you want during a winter storm is clogged gutters. When gutters are clogged, water can back up and damage your roof and walls. To avoid this, make sure to clean your gutters before winter hits.
You can do this yourself or hire a professional. Removing leaves and debris from your gutters will help ensure that water flows properly and does not cause any damage to your home.
Preparing Your Plumbing
Winter can also take a toll on your plumbing. To prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting, make sure to insulate any exposed pipes and let faucets drip a little during extremely cold weather.
Additionally, know where the main water shut-off valve is in your home in case of an emergency. Consider getting a professional to look for any potential issues before the winter starts to minimize the risk of problems.
Fire Safety
During the colder months, people use heaters and fireplaces more often, so it's important to ensure your home is safe from fire. If you have a chimney, make sure to have it cleaned and inspected before you start using it in the winter.
Additionally, try to keep flammable materials, such as curtains and furniture, at least three feet away from your fireplace and heaters. It's also important to have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home and have them checked regularly.
This is a contributed post.
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