Here are some key preventative measures to take now to protect your home this winter and ideas to cut heating costs.
Roof and Drainage:
- Clean and remove debris from gutters.
- Make sure your roof’s drainpipes are pointed away from the house.
Plumbing:
- Wrap exposed pipes and plumbing with insulation.
- Keep valves and taps open to prevent water from staying and freezing in pipes.
- Even if not at home, keep home’s temperature warm enough to prevent freezing.
- When temperatures dip below freezing, keep water dripping in sinks and faucets.
- Keep cabinets open in bathrooms and kitchens in order to heat up cold pipes.
Heating:
- Seal the gaps in windows and doors.
- Check and maintain your insulation.
- Tune-up your heating system.
- Install a programmable thermostat.
- Replace old doors and windows.
- Inspect and clean your fireplace.
Electric:
- Test your fire and carbon monoxide detectors when you change your clocks in the fall and spring.
- Don’t overload electrical outlets and use proper extension cords.
- Follow dryer safety recommendations.
- Empty lint filter before putting anything in the dryer.
- Clear out vent pipe at least once every three months.
- Never run the dryer while asleep or away from home.
Walkways and Driveways:
- Keep walkways and driveways well lit and clear of ice.
