Winter Home Maintenance Tips
Keep the
chill out and safely enjoy the season
Winter weather can present unexpected risks to your home. Please take a moment to review this helpful winter home maintenance checklist so you can protect your investment.
Check your
outlets and all electrical holiday decorations for potential fire hazards
such as frayed wires or loose connections. Do not overload the outlet,
extension cords or surge protectors.
Check and clean your heating system to make sure
it is in good working condition for the winter months. This is generally a
job best performed by a professional.
Have
adequate fuel reserves on hand since fuel carriers might not be able to
refuel for several days during severe weather.
Close off
and lower the temperature in unneeded rooms. Make sure that there is
sufficient heat to prevent the freezing of water pipes.
Insulate
pipes that pass through unheated areas. Your home's crawl space and attic
are two such areas.
Clean
and/or replace your furnace filter before the heating season begins.
Clean the
clothes dryer exhaust duct and space under the dryer. This prevents lint
from accumulating and decreases the risk of fire.
Service
snow removal equipment and have rock salt on hand to melt ice on walkways.
Set the
heat in your home no lower than 55 degrees.
Remove
screens from windows and install storm windows if your
home has them.
Protect
your roof against heavy snow and ice loads. Keep gutters clean and roof
drains opened.
Inspect washing machine hoses periodically and replace hoses that show signs of leaking.
For more home maintenance tips, visit the “For Consumers” section of National Association of Home Builders Web site at www.NAHB.org.