Is Your Home Ready for Cold Weather?

Jamie Vagnier

The number one MUST do is cleaning out gutters.Clogged rain gutters or downspouts can damage your home’s foundation or cause ice dams, which can lead to expensive repairs. So, after the leaves have fallen, clean your gutters to remove leaves and twigs. Also, make sure the gutters aren’t sagging and trapping water, tighten gutter hangers and downspout brackets, and replace any worn or damaged materials.

The number two MUST do is check your HVAC system.This being said before the weather turns cold, take this time to change your filters, at the very least. I recommend having the system inspected by a reputable HVAC contractor. Better yet, look into an annual maintenance agreement. Have the contractor check your system and make sure your heat is going to work when you need it. Also most companies will put you to the top of the list if you have an emergency if you already have an annual maintenance agreement with them. 

One last thing, have your fireplace cleaned and inspected before you start building those cozy fires in the next couple of months. A good chimney sweep company will make sure the fireplace is safe to use, and it can also identify maintenance problems. And one of the most important things that goes along with this is checking the Fire Alarm and Carbon monoxide detectors.Winter is the time most house fires happen. It’s the time of year when we’re blasting the furnace and building fires. We are also much more likely to have our home closed up tight, so carbon monoxide is a much bigger hazard. Check all of your smoke detectors to make sure they are working and that they have good batteries. If your home is not equipped with carbon monoxide detectors, consider getting some. The HVAC inspection will also ensure your furnace and water heater are properly vented, which is the most likely source of carbon monoxide.

I know there are much more fun things to do to get ready for winter like tuning up your downhill skis, but lets remember we have to protect our family and our investment!