7 Tips to Winterize Your Home
Winterization is a daunting, but necessary task that we all must take part in to continue to enjoy the benefits of Northern living.
Though it can turn into a long list of items, many can be completed by you alone! Doing what you can on your own can save you time and money, so we're here to give you a few pointers that might make your preparation process a little easier. Enjoy a worry-free winter with these tips and tricks!
Inspect Your Roof
No one likes a leaky roof, and heavy snow and ice can make this problem increasingly worse. A few things you can do to prevent any potential leaks once things start melting are:
- Look for apparent damage (broken or missing shingles, damaged flashing, etc.)
- Check the attic or ceilings for any existing leaks.
- Make sure your roof is clear of debris, like leaves and pine needles; this adds unnecessary weight.
- Invest in a snow rake to help avoid additional weight and moisture after a big storm.
Clean Your Gutters
Gutters free of leaves and pine needles means a smooth transition from winter to spring. Keep water flowing to the ground, and not toward your foundation by doing a quick sweep of your drainage system. Clogged gutters can lead to exterior water damage, pest infestations, and water getting into your basement. You could also consider investing in gutter guards to keep debris out all year; these do need to be swept off occasionally to ensure top performance.
Keep The Cold Out
Taking the time to check around your windows and doors for drafts can make a huge difference in making sure your home holds heat all winter long. A little extra caulk or weather stripping can do wonders, so spend some time feeling for drafts throughout your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, sealing drafts can save you upwards of 20% on your heating costs.
Protect Your Plumbing
Depending on your climate and the location of your plumbing, you may need to consider wrapping your pipes in foam insulators to ensure that they don't freeze or burst. These wraps can be purchased at most hardware stores and are easy to install. Insulating your plumbing ahead of time will save you a world of trouble and expenses later on; you will thank your future self!
Clean or Replace Your Furnace Filter
Like any filtered appliance, the job of the filter is to trap dust and debris. At some point, the filter can become so clogged that it begins to obstruct the output of heat and airflow. Though regular maintenance by a professional should not be skipped, refreshing or replacing your furnace filter is an easy trick you can do yourself to keep things running smoothly. If you decide to just refresh, most disposable filters are able to be vacuumed once after initial installation, whereas foam filters do not require replacement unless damaged.
Install A Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a great option if you are looking to cut down on costs. It allows you to set your furnace to a schedule to accommodate when you're home and when you're away. Many models now are even compatible with your smartphone, allowing you to make changes on the go. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting the temperature to 68 degrees Fahrenheit when you're inside the home and dropping it down a bit when you're away or sleeping. A programmable thermostat allows much more flexibility in this regard.
It's important to remember that with all home renovation projects, the minute you begin feeling like it's outside your skill level, just call a professional. There's nothing wrong with getting a second opinion or having someone with the right set of skills do the job for you. You may not be able to do everything on your own, but with the right tools and information, you can be your own home winterization aficionado!
