Save Money, Feel Secure by Winterizing the Home
Fill Those Cracks and Clean Those Gutters Before Snow Arrives
Sep 24, 2009
The temperature during winter months in Canada tends to stay below zero degrees Celsius, with snow on the ground from mid-December to mid-March. The accumulation of snow around a home, naturally, will melt in the spring, so homeowners must make sure their drainage systems are functioning normally.
Make the most out of these warmer days of autumn by cleaning out the rain gutters. Remove accumulated dirt, leaves and twigs by hand and then clean the gutters thoroughly with a garden hose and nozzle. Install downspout extensions to ensure the water flows away from the home’s foundation.
Prevent Basement Flooding
Basements, or sous-sols, can be susceptible to flooding and water damage, so take time now to make sure window wells don’t turn into water collectors. Replace dirt below the windows with small rocks to improve drainage, or put covers on them for winter and spring.
Because winter means shorter days and longer nights, homes should be made more energy efficient in order to cut down on winter utility bills. Start with changing the filters on the main heating system, and put insulation around hot water heaters.
Check the home's foundation as well as doors and windows for cracks. Add new weather stripping or caulking to reduce winter drafts that can send winter heating bills through the roof.
Swimming Pool Maintenance
If a homeowner has a swimming pool, he'll need to clear any leaves or debris that fall into it during autumn. Add winter chlorine and alkalizer to ensure that the water remains clean during the cold months and is ready for use when warmer days arrive. Then drain the pool to a level recommended by the manufacturer and securely replace the pool cover. And don’t forget to cover up the pool filter.
Before freezing temperatures set in, shut the water valves that supply sprinkler systems and then drain the system to prevent damage from frozen water pipes.
Inside the home, make sure heating vents are not blocked by furniture. And to save money, consider installing a programmable thermostat that will maintain minimum temperatures while occupants are away and a more comfortable environment when they return.
Attic Insulation
Check the attic to make sure it’s well insulated. That’s where a lot of heat loss typically occurs. Install new insulation if needed and look for insulation that has a high R-value, or greater thermal resistance.
And don’t neglect lighting. Longer nights mean a greater use of lights, so switch to compact fluorescents wherever possible to reduce energy use.
Keep adequate winter clothing on hand, including waterproof boots, overcoat, scarves, hats that cover the ears and gloves or mittens. Snow shovels or snow blowers to clear driveways are also essential equipment.
Stock up on Dry Wood
Purchase firewood and store it in a safe, dry space. Having an alternative to electric or oil heaters better prepares homeowners for emergencies.
Getting the home ready for winter will help maintain a home’s value and give the owner peace of mind. Make that checklist and do what’s necessary to keep the family safe and comfortable this winter.
(And check out some winter driving tips.)
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