Winter is on the horizon, and for homeowners, that means it’s time to prepare our homes for the cold months ahead. Proper winterization not only ensures that your home remains cozy and comfortable, but it can also save you money on energy bills and costly repairs. Here’s a handyman’s checklist to make sure your home is winter-ready.
- Inspect and Clean Gutters
Clogged gutters can cause ice dams, which can lead to water seeping into your home. Ensure your gutters are free of leaves and debris, and consider installing gutter guards to minimize the chances of blockages.
- Seal Windows and Doors
Drafts can quickly increase your heating bills. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any gaps around windows and doors. For added insulation, consider using window film or thermal curtains.
- Service Your Heating System
Have a professional inspect and clean your furnace or boiler. Replace filters to ensure efficient airflow and consider installing a programmable thermostat to optimize heating schedules.
- Reverse Ceiling Fans
By reversing your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise, they will push warm air downward and circulate it throughout the room.
- Protect Pipes from Freezing
Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as the garage or crawl space. Detach garden hoses from outdoor faucets and drain them. If possible, shut off outdoor faucets from the interior valve and leave the exterior valve open.
- Check and Clean the Fireplace and Chimney
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, get your chimney cleaned and inspected to prevent chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion. Check the damper to ensure it opens and closes correctly.
- Inspect the Roof
Check for damaged or missing shingles that might leak during winter storms. Look for any signs of wear around chimneys and vents.
- Install Storm Doors and Windows
These add an extra layer of protection from the cold. They can increase energy efficiency by sealing drafts and reducing airflow.
- Trim Trees and Branches
Trim any branches that are too close to your house or power lines. Snow and ice can cause them to break, leading to potential damage or power outages.
- Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Ensure you have shovels, ice scrapers, and a supply of salt or ice melt. It’s always better to be prepared before the first snowfall.
- Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Replace batteries in all detectors and ensure they are functioning correctly. Winter sees an uptick in house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning, making this step crucial.
- Wrap Your Water Heater
Consider insulating your water heater with a blanket. It can reduce heat loss and make the appliance work less, saving you money.
- Weather-strip the Garage Door
Keep the cold air out and the warm air in by sealing your garage door. This not only keeps your home warmer but can also protect any items stored in the garage from the cold.
- Protect Outdoor Furniture and Tools
Clean and store seasonal outdoor furniture in a dry place. Service and store gardening tools, mowers, and other equipment.
- Ensure Proper Attic Insulation
Heat rises, and if your attic isn’t adequately insulated, you might be losing a lot of it. Check for gaps and add extra insulation where needed.
Winterizing your home might seem like a daunting task, but by breaking it down step-by-step, you can ensure your home is prepared for the colder months. Not only will you enjoy the coziness of a winter-proof home, but you’ll also have peace of mind knowing you’ve taken steps to prevent potential issues and save on energy costs. Stay warm and safe!