Prepare for winter by following this list!

Use this checklist to prepare your home for winter

1. Check your home’s heating and air conditioning system
2. Clean your gutters
3. Check smoke detectors
4. Drain outside faucets
5. Check your trees
6. Prepare for snow removal

HVAC

Change filters. Consider having your air ducts cleaned if it has been 2-5 years since they have been done.  Being shut up in the house for months with stale contaminants blowing through your air is not a pleasant thought! 

Gutters

Once the leaves are off the trees clean them.  When backed up with leaves they can overflow and water can run down the siding and even come in windows!  (don’t ask how I know!)  

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Winter is when most house fires happen. Check for operation and replace any batteries.

Outside Water Faucets

The faucet is unprotected from the elements. I’ve seen them split the water line well inside the home, flooding the basement and ruining any below grade finished areas.  Take the time to remove garden hoses and drain the line.  You don’t have to get every drop out but you don’t want the line full so it will expand and break things.  If you don’t, you may not find out until spring when you turn on your garden hose.  Your so-called “Freeze Free” faucet will give you great grief if not drained.  I have witnessed it personally!  If you are installing one, have it slant downward toward the faucet so it can drain properly.

Check Your Trees

As the leaves fall off, make sure they are healthy, especially if they could fall on your home or a neighbor’s home.

Prepare for Snow Removal

Dig out the snowblower and fire it up before the “big one” hits!  If it won’t start, try to repair it now!  Small engine repair places usually take repairs “in the order they are received.” It’s no fun trying to start a cranky small engine with snow blowing and temps dropping!

Hope that helps you ease into winter.  It will go better if you prepare!