Winter is upon us and many people still find themselves unprepared. This month we are here to help you out with 10 tips for homeowners to protect themselves and their homes while the temperature falls.
1.) Get your chimney or furnace inspected
Make sure you are having your home heating inspected yearly. This will not only insure that it is functioning properly which can save you money, but could also save your life. Making sure the heat source is clean can prevent fire from various buildup over time. Making sure your heat is getting to the desired location will cut down on your heating cost long term. Going forward this is something you want to put on your calendar each summer to have it scheduled for the fall.
2.) Check your filters
Furnace filters should be replaced more frequently in the winter months. Routine replacements will keep your furnace running its best. It will keep you breathing better as properly replacing filters will keep dust out of the air. It will also save you on energy usage. To plan ahead, you could put a reminder on your calendar starting in September to check these every 2 months until April.
3.) Monitor outdoor equipment
If you have a meter outside or vents that run outside make sure you’re clearing them off. Don’t allow buildup of snow and ice that could cause damage, and never use a heat source to melt any that may be there.
4.) Regularly check any outdoor vents
Gas appliances such as a hot water heater, furnace or fireplace have plastic pipes that vent to the outside. Most of the time these pipes exit your house at its foundation. It’s extremely important that these are kept clear at all times of debris, snow, and ice. A clear opening allows the gasses to properly escape your house preventing carbon monoxide poisoning.
5.) Check your carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms
Checking to make sure all detectors are in working order needs to be done at least once a year. While doing this it is important to also check the expiration date on them and replace as necessary. Smoke detectors need to be replaced every 8-10 years while carbon monoxide detectors need to be done every 3-5 years. Another reminder for the fall!
6.) Warm your car up outside
While it may be convenient to warm your car in your garage it can still be extremely dangerous even with the garage door open. Being in a confined area exposes you to carbon monoxide and other gases that should not be inhaled. If your garage is attached to your house letting it idle can allow those gases to also seep into your home.
7.) Prevent your water pipes from freezing
Frozen pipes in the winter can be detrimental for your home. Don’t neglect your plumbing this winter. Taking a few preventive steps to reduce the risk can save you in the long run. Pipes located in exterior walls or an unheated attic or basement area are at the greatest risk. For long term protection invest in pipe insulation. It’s also important to note that if you do not have frost proof spigots you need to close the interior shut off valve. A short term trick is to let your faucet drip on cold nights. The water is less likely to freeze in the pipes due to constant movement.
8.) Make sure things are properly ventilated
You should always prioritize cleaning your dryer vent, kitchen, and bathroom exhaust fans and any other return and supply vents. With families spending more time inside in the winter months it is especially important. Being inside more and not having windows or doors open leads to more dust accumulation, as well as more airborne particles and contaminants.
9.) Avoid icy gutters
Make sure your gutters are cleaned before the snowfall. Having leaves and other debris will allow water to settle and build up over time resulting in icy gutters or large dangerous icicles. Letting ice buildup in your gutters can result in damages to your gutters and roof over time.
1o.) Clear and prevent icy walkways
Clearing walkways to and from your home is also extremely important. Make sure to shovel and salt walkways regularly with bad weather. Not having ice buildup on walkways around your house will prevent someone from falling and a potential lawsuit.
Bonus tip
Last but not least, protect your home and family from illnesses this winter. Being stuck inside especially when everyone in your home is sick is no fun. Stock up on antibacterial hand soaps, cleaners, and sanitizers. Keep the air clean with proper ventilation so everyone is breathing better.
If you would like to not only ensure your home is safe, but is also protected, reach out. At John Scott Insurance Agency, we are here to protect you. We want you to spend as much time as possible enjoying your home and family, not worrying whether your home is fully protected if something should happen. We are a family owned company committed to keeping you and your family safe through every season.
Leave a comment