The colder months of the year are almost here, which means it’s time to start preparing your home for the rough winter ahead. It’s important to start winterizing your property now before the winds start blowing and the snow piles up. With everything taken care of inside and outside the home, you’ll be able to keep your family safe and warm all winter long.
Before the worst of the winter sets in, it’s essential to take care of your home so that it can stand up to the incoming weather. With these seven tips, you’ll be able to get your house ready in time for winter.
1. Clean Heating Vents
One of the most important things to do during this time of year is to ensure your heating vents are clear. This allows air circulation and prevents the excessive buildup of dirt and dust, which can cause fires. To clean your vents, use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment or a brush attachment to clean out any debris.
2. Buy a New Furnace
It’s crucial that you buy a new furnace ahead of winter to make sure you and your family are comfortable throughout the season. It’s a good idea to get your furnace checked before the winter. In addition, you should also be sure that it has been cleaned and serviced recently. You will also want to plan ahead in case of an emergency, so make sure you have a backup heating source available in case of emergency.
3. Update Smoke Detectors
It is important to make sure your smoke detectors are in good condition before winter comes. Smoke detectors can get dusty and clogged with hair from pets or humans. To clean, take a vacuum and use a long attachment to get into all corners of the detector. You can also use compressed air if you have it available, but be careful as it can blow dust and dirt into areas you didn’t want to clean.
4. Change Air Filters
Before the winter weather comes, make it a point to change your air filters. Dirty air filters can contribute to the buildup of dust and debris that can damage furnace fins or drywall. Since your heating system will work harder when it’s cold, it is important that you remove any hindrance in its way. Be proactive and clean up as much of your home as possible before winter so you’ll be ready for the worst.
5. Check Exterior Doors and Windows
Exterior doors and windows are some of the most vulnerable areas in the home. If you see any cracks or broken seals, this is a sign that you may need a new door or window. You should also check to make sure that all locks are working properly, and if not, it’s important to get them replaced as soon as possible.
As you get ready for winter weather, it’s worth considering installing storm guards on your exterior doors and windows if you live in an area with high winds. This new addition to your home will help protect both the inside and outside of your home from getting damaged by strong winds during winter storms.
6. Use Roof Rakes to Remove Snow
Using a roof rake may seem like a lot of unnecessary work, but it will keep your home and roof free of snow as winter sets in. Use a roof rake by placing it on your roof, then pushing it forward toward the front edge of the roof. Use the rake to pull snow across the roof and onto the ground.
Repeat this motion until all snow is removed. The heavier the snowfall, the more frequently you’ll have to use the rake, but it will be worth it as you’ll reduce the overall snow buildup on the roof.
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7. Inspect Electrical Wires
Inspecting your electrical wires is an important part of winterizing the home. Make sure that your wires are bundled together and insulated properly. If you have exposed wires outside your home, call an electrician to get them taken care of as soon as possible.
Make sure you’ve successfully prepared your home for the rough winter ahead. Keep these tips in mind as you continue to prepare your home for winter.
