Here in New England, cold weather is imminent. If you’re a homeowner, it’s important to prepare your home and property for the winter—before it comes. Following are seven tips to help you get ready for the season right now.
Check Your Exterior, Doors, and Windows
Let’s face it. Winter in New England is tough. Help protect your home from the elements by checking the siding for cracks, loose panels, and mold. Inspect your doors and windows for drafts and seal or replace them if necessary.
Assess Heating System Components
Before the cold hits, make sure that your heating and air conditioning system is in good working order! That means changing the filter and having the system inspected an HVAC professional to make sure it is running efficiently. Get your chimney cleaned and look it over for any cracks. Stock up on firewood and if you use oil to heat your home, ensure that your tank is filled well ahead of the winter chill.
Test Fire and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Fire and carbon monoxide poisoning pose big threats during wintertime. Be sure your detectors are in appropriate locations, are up-to-date, and are in good working condition.
Clean Gutters
This time of year in particular, leaves tend to clog up gutters. You’ll want to clean them out so melting snow and ice can properly drain through them. Ice dams are no fun to deal with in the middle of winter! Make sure your roof is in good working order as well to prevent water damage.
Yard Work
Be sure to clean up leaves for your yard. Sure, they’re fun to play in, but they are also a real threat to your lawn. If a thick layer of leaves is left on your lawn over the winter, you may find in the spring that your grass will not grow back. You should also check the health of your trees and trim any branches that may fall under the pressure of wind, snow, or ice and cause damage to your home. This will also help prevent unwanted animals from making a home in your attic over the winter.
Prep Pipes
Take a good look at the pipes in your house. Are any susceptible to freezing? If so, wrap them with insulation. And, don’t forget about the outside. Disconnect hoses and drain exterior faucets and if you have a sprinkler system, have it cleared out as well.
Start Your Snowblower
You don’t want to find out when you need it that your snowblower isn’t working properly or doesn’t have gas. Start it now and perform any necessary maintenance before the first snow falls. Don’t have a snowblower? Dig out your shovels and make sure they will get the job done!
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