9 Winter Maintenance Tips for Your Home
Due to recent climate changes, winter storms have increasingly become harsher. Not having proper plans in place to protect your home throughout winter could cost you a lot in terms of heating and energy bills, or even damages. It’s advisable to do everything possible to avoid having to go through costly repairs.
Right here in this article, we will bring you the number of winter maintenance tips that you could use in your home to prevent additional winter costs.
1. Get storm windows and doors installed
A storm window will protect your home from the storm and will help to reduce heat loss, this is especially recommended for you if you use a single pane window.
This is why more people are embracing sheer blackout dual shades than ever before. This window blind has its outer layer which is the light filtering shade, while the inner layer blocks out all lights. This could help a lot during winter storms and also improves your privacy at home.
You can also get storm doors from improvement stores around you. Always measure the windows, blinds, and doors to make sure they fit into the openings at home. You could also use a window shield or protector to shield it from storms.
2. Insulate your pipes
You can insulate the pipes by setting the heat to not less than 55°F. You must prevent your pipes from freezing because water expands when it freezes, and this means that pipes could burst.
Always insulate pipes located in areas of the home that are not being heated.
3. Prepare for power outages during winter storms
It is fairly common to have power outages during winter storms, so you should prepare for that. Get flashlights, phone chargers, power banks for your smartphones, stock up on non-perishable foods and also on batteries.
4. Make sure that the batteries in your smoke detectors are working
Regularly check the batteries in your smoke alarms and other alarms in the house at least once a month. A good percentage of structure fires are caused by heating during the winter months.
Confirm that the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good shape.
5. Prevent ice dam and icicle formations
Make sure that you have proper insulation and venting installations. You should also rake off all snow from your roof and install several heat cables.
6. Remove all the debris
Some flat roofs are surfaced with pebbles. Make sure to rake off all the debris like leaves to prevent moisture build-up.
7. Make sure there is adequate insulation
Adequate insulation will save you a lot of money from heating costs because your heating system will have to over-work.
If your insulation system is not good enough, you can do that by adding some insulation to your walls, attic, etc. Sufficient insulation will help immensely with keeping everywhere warm.
8. Have a yearly fireplace inspection and chimney maintenance
If your chimney is clogged, it could lead to a house fire as well as carbon monoxide poisoning. So make sure you get your chimney swept yearly and have a regular fireplace inspection to prevent fire outbreaks.
This simple maintenance procedure and might cost you money, but it is worth it in the long run.
9. Always keep the heat on
Even when you’re not at home, leave the heat on. This prevents your pipes from freezing.
In conclusion, trying out these nine tips given above is not a bad idea. Save yourself costs in the long run by taking small maintenance steps today.