Winter is upon us, and with it comes the joy of cozy nights by the fire, mugs of hot cocoa, and shimmering snowflakes outside our windows. But as beautiful as winter can be, it also brings unique challenges for homeowners trying to maintain the integrity and efficiency of their homes. Let’s explore some essential winter home maintenance tips every homeowner should know to keep their residences warm, safe, and functional throughout the season.
Keep Your Heating System Running Smoothly
One of the most critical aspects of winter home maintenance is ensuring your heating system is in optimal working condition. An uninspected heating system can lead to decreased efficiency, higher energy costs, and even potential hazards, such as carbon monoxide leaks. Therefore, schedule an annual inspection and servicing with a qualified professional. Additionally, be sure to change your furnace filters regularly, every one to three months, to help maintain air quality and prolong the life of your heating system.
Prevent Frozen Pipes and Water Damage
Frozen pipes can be a nightmare for homeowners. They can lead to burst pipes and expensive water damage, not to mention the inconvenience of being without running water. To prevent this issue, take the following precautions:
- Insulate any exposed water pipes in unheated areas, such as basements and crawlspaces.
- Keep your home thermostat set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you’re away.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- During particularly cold periods, let faucets drip slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes.
Inspect and Clear Your Roof and Gutters
Heavy snowfall and ice can significantly strain and harm your roof if you don’t interfere. When it’s safe to do so, use a roof rake or a long-handled broom to remove excessive snow buildup. Next, inspect your roof for potential ice dams, which form when snow melts and refreezes, causing water to back up under the shingles. To prevent ice dams, remove leaves and debris from gutters, ensure adequate attic insulation and ventilation, and consider installing heat cables along your roof’s edges.
Seal Windows and Doors To Keep the Cold Out
Drafty windows and doors can drastically reduce your home’s energy efficiency, causing your heating system to work overtime and increasing your energy bills. To combat this, weatherstrip around doors and windows to create a tight seal. Additionally, consider investing in energy-efficient windows and doors, or apply a window insulation kit.
As winter wraps us up in its frosty embrace, apply these winter home maintenance tips to keep your home safe, energy-efficient, and comfortable throughout the season. Every homeowner should take these proactive steps to avoid large, costly problems down the road and enjoy all that winter has to offer.
If you’re in the market for a new home, consider Herrington Homes, a house building contractor dedicated to meeting your needs and exceeding your expectations. We specialize in constructing custom homes and offer design-build services to ensure you get the home of your dreams. Let Herrington Homes help you create a winter haven that will last for years to come!
