I wanted to check in and give some tips and reminders on preparing your house for winter. Routine maintenance is key in helping your home maintain its value while preventing big and expensive problems in the future.
INDOOR ITEMS:
Furnace maintenance/check.
Replace your furnace filter.
Swap the Central Humidifier Filter (located on the furnace) and set the Humidistat to 35%.
It never hurts to schedule a furnace service/tune-up & cleaning ($100-$300).
Check attic insulation levels to conserve heat and avoid Ice damming.
Attic insulation should be between 10-14+ inches.
Run water in extreme temperatures.
make sure to run the water at least once a week in all the bathrooms, showers, faucets, etc - especially on exterior walls to prevent freezing and pipes from bursting.
Reverse ceiling fans for increased energy efficiency.
Most ceiling fans have a switch that reverses the fan blade, drawing heat up.
Chimney Cleaning (wood-burning fireplace)
Built-up soot, creosote, and other debris can put you at risk of a chimney fire.
OUTDOOR ITEMS:
Clean the gutters to prevent ice damming.
Gutter Downspouts should diverted at least 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation.
Winterize the sprinkler/irrigation system.
Winterize and drain outdoor spigots/faucets.
Even if spigots don't have individual shut-off valves they can still be winterized. Here is a link with steps.
If you don't normally winterize, confirm you have frost-proof water spigots.
Check outdoor windows and doors caulk.
Thoroughly inspect all your windows and doors and apply caulk to any gaps where they meet the house. Even a small gap can decrease the inside air temperature enough to make you feel cold and uncomfortable.
Landscaping
Mulch leaves when mowing.
Studies have shown that mulching leaves can return nutrients and organic matter to the yard, and have long-term positive effects.
Prune plants and shrubs in winter NOT fall
According to the Chicago Botanic Garden, winter is actually the best time of year to prune your deciduous plants. You can read more Here.
Trim tree branches that could fall on your house with heavy snow.
CHECK YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE
Confirm how your policy would cover potential winter damage, like ice dams, fires, or damage from tree branches and marring.
I use and highly recommend Joyce Splan with Assured Partners She's an independent broker and can shop around quotes with multiple carriers.
Joyce Splan
630-908-5052
Joyce.Splan@assuredpartners.com
I hope you find this list helpful! I want to thank you again for your business and referrals!
I am here for all of your real estate needs! Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or needs.