Winterizing your home can be a daunting task, but it’s a crucial part of protecting your investment and saving money on energy bills. Here are a few of the most important steps to take before the cold weather arrives:
1. Inspect windows and doors for cracks, gaps, or other issues that could allow heat to escape. Seal them using caulk or other type of insulation.
2. Inspect your furnace and make sure it’s working properly, or contact an HVAC professional for a tune-up.
3. Install weatherstripping around doors and window frames to prevent air from escaping.
4. Inspect your roof and gutters for clogs or other potential problems that could lead to water damage.
5. Clean and insulate your attic for better insulation and heating efficiency during the cold season.
6. Flush your water heater or boiler system to remove sediment and other particles that can clog the outlets in summer.
7. Insulate your attic floor to keep warm air in and cold air out.
8. Turn on a ceiling fan for proper circulation.
9. Change your filters for improved home efficiency and to protect your heating system from clogging.
10. Inspect your attic for leaks, cracks, and other issues that could cause damage during the colder months.
12. Clean and insulate your attic for greater comfort, safety, and energy savings during the colder seasons.
13. Inspect your roof for damage, mold, or other issues that could pose a risk to your family during the winter.
14. Inspect your gutters and direct any accumulated debris away from your roof.
15. Install glass panes in storm windows to prevent damage from the elements during the winter.
16. Replace the glass in your storm windows with screens during the spring to let fresh air into your house.
17. Inspect your chimney to be sure it is in good repair and free of any problems that might cause a fire.
18. Inspect the interior of your house for signs of leaking, holes, or other issues that could lead to damage during the colder seasons.
19. Inspect your siding for cracks, gaps, or other issues.
20. Inspect your gutters for clogs or other problems that could lead to water damage during the winter. Much better to hire a professional gutter cleaning service such as Gutter Cleaning Hillsboro to complete the inspection with cleaning.
21. Install glass panes in storm windows to protect your home from wind and other elements during the winter.
22. Inspect your chimney to be sure it is free of any problems that might cause a smoke or carbon monoxide emergency during the colder seasons.
23. Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
24. Install a smart thermostat to help you stay on top of your heating costs while staying comfortable inside the house.
25. Check your refrigerator for water or other problems that might require attention during the winter.
Inspect your water heater to make sure it’s working correctly. If it isn’t, call a plumber for repairs or a replacement before the colder weather comes.