Winterize Home Checklist

Getting The House Ready For Winter Checklist

Fall is the time to get prepared and make your house ready for cold weather. A little effort and work now can save a lot of energy, time, and money afterward. Indeed, snow, ice, and cold weather can damage your house unless you prepare for the winter beforehand. Completing the checklist will make your house a lot more comfortable and warm when the thermometer drops and effectively winterize your home.

Look at the checklist below and ensure that you’ve got everything ready for winter-

Check Your Fireplace

Creosote buildup or animal nests in the fireplace can be dangerous. Before the season arrives, call a chimney sweep to clean the chimney. It would be best if you also sweep or vacuum out any accumulated ash from the firebox. 

Keep the Pipes Warm

During winters, frozen pipes can burst, causing a major debacle. If you’re not careful, they can result in severe flood damage and require complicated fixes. Don’t turn off your heat completely when you leave the house to prevent this from happening. Keep the temperature around 50 to 55°F. This temperature will be enough to ensure that your pipes to stay sufficiently warm.

Replace Your Thermostat

Get a programmable thermostat for your home to get a modern and simplistic way to deal with Winter. With the help of a programmable or smart thermostat, you customize your heating system, so it doesn’t run needlessly. When you’re at home, you can program the thermostat for one temperature and another for when you’re away.

Protect the Windows From Heat Loss

Replace the lightweight summer curtains with thermal lined drapes or curtains to keep chilly air from leaking through window gaps. These drapes will keep your house warm. Keep the drapes or curtains closed so that no cold air will enter your home.  

Put the Gardening Supplies Away

Be sure to move all outdoor appliances like lawnmowers, grills, etc., and furniture into the shed or garage. Do this before fall comes in. Also, keep any planters inside you’d like to save through the season. Remember to bring and disconnect all of the garden hoses. Coldwater or frozen water can cause the hose to split. Oil the gardening tools and store them in a warm place.