The best time of the year to start winterizing your home is before the temperatures start to drop and snow is already on the ground, but if you’re reading this and haven’t already made those small changes to your home, consider this your nudge to get started!
Preparing your home for cold temperatures doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Understanding how to winterize your home to keep it running smoothly will not only keep you safe, but it will keep your energy bill lower too.
This winter, plan ahead for burst pipes, water and tree damage, and unexpected power outages. Knowing how to prepare for these common occurrences can be beneficial to you and the safety of your home.
Protecting Pipes
If a pipe does burst in your home, avoid electrocution by calling Southern Indiana Power right away to turn off your electricity before going down in a basement or before touching any plugged-in appliances.
Here’s how you can protect your pipes this winter:
- Turn off outdoor faucets and have sprinkler systems blown out by a professional
- Drain outdoor hoses
- Remove and drain window A/C units
- Insulate pipes in exposed or unheated areas
- Keep your thermostat above 55° F
- On especially cold days, open cabinets to let warm air reach sink pipes
Roof Damage
To avoid rooftop water damage from clogged gutters, clean your gutters after the last leaf of the season falls. This will keep ice and water from building up around the foundation of your home, which could possibly cause leaking on your roof. Before a storm hits, have a professional check the trees around your home. Dead or dying limbs on your trees will most likely fall during the first big storm, causing damage to not only your home but possibly to your neighbors’ homes as well.
Winter Appliances
When preparing for winter weather, remember to check on winter appliances that have been stored away. Look over appliances like snowblowers and generators to be sure the wiring isn’t cracked and that all other parts are in working order.
Source: ESFI, Consumer Safety