Will you be away from your house over the winter season, even if for only for a couple of weeks? Prepare your home for harsh weather. Burst pipes can cause homeowners anywhere from $5,000 and up in damages and repairs.
9-STEP WINTERIZING CHECKLIST
1. Adjust your thermostat. Set the thermostat at 50-55º.
2. Shut off the water at the main valve.
3. Open all faucets, allowing water to drain from your pipes.
4. Drain water heater and interior pipes.
5. Have a technician turn off the gas line to your home (it’s a free service).
6. Unplug electronics and appliances.
7. Bring in yard furniture; disconnect garden hoses and cover hose bibs.
8. Drain the sprinkler or irrigation system.
9. Tell your neighbors that you will be away from home. Notify trusted neighbors that you will be away, when you plan to return, and provide contact information. Ask them to keep an eye on your place.
STAYING HOME DURING THE WINTER MONTHS?
These tips can help you save energy.
1. Reverse your ceiling fan so that the blades turn clockwise. This moves heat from the ceiling towards the floor.
2. Heat escapes under doors. Purchase draft guards from $10-20 apiece, or save money and use a rolled towel at the bottom of each door.
3. Replace filters to improve the efficiency and longevity of your HVAC system.
4. Your chimney is a huge source of heat loss in the wintertime. When not in active use, plug it with a chimney balloon to keep drafts out and heat in.
5. Flush your water heater about once a year. Sediment can accumulate over time and affect efficiency.
