Winterize your home - From the roof to the basement The Roof - Now is the best time to inspect the roof for missing or worn shingles to prevent roof leaks. This is also a great time to look at the gutters. Scoop out any debris, clean the drains and downspouts, and ensure gutter extensions are properly positioned to direct water away from the house. If you cannot safely access the roof yourself, consult a professional. Checking for leaks - Ensure all windows and doors in your house are properly sealed to prevent heat from escaping and inflating heating costs. Checking if the attic is properly insulated can also go a long way to keep your home warm in the winter months. Heat and Furnace Inspection - Inspect your furnace, clean the ducts, and replace furnace filters. It is recommended the filters are changed every 4 to 6 weeks. If you dont already have one, consider installing a programmable thermostat - another inexpensive and simple way to cut down on home heating costs. Pipes - Prevent burst or cracked pipes and water damage by turning off the water to your garden hose, and check for pipes that run through colder areas of your home. Wrap any exposed pipe in insulation sleeves to prevent freezing. Safety - Check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order, and have extra batteries on hand. In case of emergency, your fire extinguisher should be operational, and less than 10 years old.
Posted on: Sat, 16 Nov 2013 19:15:36 +0000