Days are getting longer and nights are getting colder… Before you get ready to sit down by the fire and enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate, make sure the following are in order!
Here a few Safety and Winter Maintenance Tips
Heating System
As winter progresses make sure you check your heating system to prevent any unwanted outcomes from occurring
Check your furnace or boiler and serviced by a licensed contractor at least once a year
Clean or replace the furnace filter on forced hot air systems
Have your chimney checked and serviced by a licensed contractor
Fill your fuel tanks and keep an eye on them throughout the winter
Set your heat no lower than 55 degrees to prevent the water in your pipes from freezing
Maintain your wood burning or pellet stoves according to the manufacturer’s instructions
Insulation
Remove screens from windows and install storm windows – if necessary
Add extra insulation in the attic to help guard against ice dams - if too much heat escapes into the attic it can cause the snow to freeze and cause an ice dam which can lead to water damage inside your home or possibly even your roof to collapse
Weather stripping around your doors and caulk any windows to protect against draft and heat loss
Utilities
This time of year can be the most damaging time. Freezing temperatures can be very problematic especially to your home’s water piping. Make sure your pipes are adequately prepared to withstand what this winter will bring.
Check for water leaks – if so have them fixed immediately – wrap water piping in UL –Listed heat tape and insulate if it is exposed in unheated areas, for example, garages, crawl spaces or attics. If water piping is plastic use thermostatically controlled heat tape and following the manufacturer’s instructions
Learn how to shut off your water – know where your pipes are located in case of an emergency – you may be able to prevent damage
Exterior Safety Measures
Any over handing trees or trees near your house – make sure any dead branches are removed so they don’t cause any damage to your house or car
Keep gutters clear of leaves or other debris that could freeze – to help ensure melting snow has the proper drainage
Interior Safety Measures
Check your smoke detectors, fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries to ensure they are operating correctly
TOP THREE SAFETY MEASURES
Make sure you have snow shovels and ice melting compounds on hand
Keep all walkways and driveways are clear and properly taken care of
Keep fuel for snow blowers and generators in approved safety containers and away from heat or flame producing devices. DO NOT STORE FUEL IN YOUR BASEMENT
Stay warm!!