Proper seasonal maintenance not only ensures your home stays warm and energy-efficient but also prevents costly repairs down the road. Here’s your essential checklist to tackle before winter sets in.
1. Inspect and Clean Your HVAC System
Your HVAC system works hard to keep you comfortable through the winter. Before the temperature drops, schedule a professional inspection and cleaning. A technician can check for any issues, clean the system, and ensure everything is running efficiently. Additionally, replace or clean filters to maintain good air quality and system performance.
2. Seal Drafts and Insulate
Cold drafts can make your home uncomfortable and lead to higher energy bills. Inspect windows and doors for any gaps or leaks and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. Don’t forget to check areas like electrical outlets and pipes that might need additional insulation. Adding or replacing insulation in attics and basements can also help keep your home warm and reduce heating costs.
3. Clean and Inspect Gutters
Fallen leaves and debris can clog your gutters and downspouts, leading to water damage and ice dams. Clean out gutters and downspouts thoroughly and ensure they’re properly attached and draining away from your home’s foundation. Installing gutter guards can also help reduce future clogs.
4. Check Roof and Chimney
Inspect your roof for any missing or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks. If you have a chimney, schedule a professional inspection and cleaning to prevent dangerous chimney fires and ensure proper ventilation.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Cold weather can lead to increased use of heating systems and potentially dangerous indoor air quality issues. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working correctly and replace batteries as needed. Consider installing additional detectors if you don’t have them in key areas.
6. Prepare Outdoor Plumbing
To prevent pipes from freezing, insulate exposed outdoor pipes and disconnect garden hoses. Drain and store hoses, and if you have a sprinkler system, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for winterizing it.
7. Check Driveways and Walkways
Inspect your driveways and walkways for cracks or damage that could worsen with freezing temperatures. Repair any cracks and consider applying a sealant to protect the surfaces from ice and snow.
8. Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Ensure you have necessary winter supplies such as salt or sand for de-icing driveways and walkways, a snow shovel or snow blower for clearing snow, and emergency supplies like flashlights and batteries in case of power outages.
9. Inspect Attic and Basement
Check for any signs of leaks, mold, or pests in your attic and basement. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from becoming bigger problems during the winter months.
10. Review Your Emergency Plan
Winter storms can be unpredictable. Review your emergency plan, ensure you have a first aid kit, and keep a supply of non-perishable food and water on hand in case you’re snowed in or experience a power outage.
Taking the time to complete these essential maintenance tasks before winter arrives will help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable throughout the season. Not only will these efforts improve your home’s efficiency and longevity, but they will also provide peace of mind knowing that you’re well-prepared for the colder months.
Housing Concierge 