Did you finally break down and turn on your furnace this month? With the hottest October on record and the Hunt for Blue October ending in a World Series win in November, you may not have noticed old man winter creeping in. Time is running out for winter weather maintenance on your home so check out these tips before you realize the Chiefs are on a winning streak…
Winter Weather Maintenance Tips For Your Home
Heating Systems-
• Have your furnace checked at least once a year by a licensed contractor. Make sure they test for carbon monoxide leaks, clean the inside components and burners, check all safety devices and lubricate the motor.
• Clean or replace the furnace filter on all forced hot air systems. This will extend the life of your furnace, reduce energy bills and improve your indoor air quality.
• Have your chimney checked by a licensed contractor for Creosote build up. This flammable substance can cause a fire but if caught early, can easily be removed.
Insulation-
• Check the insulation levels in your attic. If the insulation is level with or below the attic floor joists you probably need to add more. Be sure that the insulation is evenly distributed with no low spots to get the most coverage possible. In the Midwest, the recommended R-value of insulation in your attic should be between R38-R60.
• Add weather stripping around all outside doors and caulk your windows to guard against drafts and heat loss. Any weather stripping you choose should seal well when the door or window is closed but still allow for it to open easily.
• Install storm windows. These windows offer extra insulation and energy savings that can make a big difference in your utility bills.
Miscellaneous Hazards-
• Trim trees and remove any dead branches. Trees can damage your home when winter hits and they are covered in ice and snow.
• Clean your gutters of all leaves, sticks and other debris so that melting snow can drain properly. Double check all downspouts as well to be sure they are pointing away for your foundation.
• Check your smoke detectors, fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace all batteries.
Before we know it the first snow fall will hit and you will be glad you got your home ready for winter!
