Winter is almost here. That means it’s time to prepare your home for cold weather. Some things you can do on your own. For example, you can clean or replace dirty furnace filters. But you might want to hire a professional to give your heating system a complete tune-up, especially if you’re about to put your house on the market. Here are some tips for winterizing your home.
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Check the Heating System
Heat is one thing you’ll surely need this winter. Even people who live in warm locations occasionally need heat during cold winter nights. It’s wise to get your HVAC system checked by a professional. Professional HVAC servicing assures that your system will work before the cold weather turns your hardwood floors into sheets of ice and the pricing for repair costs surges with the season.
Any type of furnace or san diego hvac service may need professional attention. These are two items that you want to make sure are ready for winter, and a professional repair person can perform much-needed maintenance. They can also spot potential problems or problems that need immediate attention. Things that you might miss can cost you dearly in the long run. Furnace and hot water tank repair are best left to the professionals.
You can easily perform simple maintenance, but play it safe and get a pro to check your furnace and hot water heater if you need anything more than that.
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Insulate the Windows
Windows that aren’t well-insulated let cold air in and warm air out. When the heat goes off, how long does it take the room to get cold? If it happens almost immediately, then your windows are potentially a problem. Consider purchasing a window insulation kit.
The kit contains plastic that covers the window and provides improved insulation. When correctly applied, the plastic is unnoticeable and the view remains clear. The window will need to remain closed, so you’ll want to use this kit with a window that you never open. An alternative is to use magnetic window insulation. This type of kit covers the window with vinyl held in place by removable magnets. You can easily remove and reattach the insulation as needed.
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Weatherstripping and Caulking
Drafty windows can let all the hot air out, but they aren’t the only problem area. Other small leaks around your home can also let heat escape. One way to combat this problem is with weatherstripping and caulking.
It might take a bit of detective work to locate the leaks. Areas such as corners, around pipes, window frames, near wiring, and around the chimney are often problem spots. You can usually feel air if you put your hand in an area you suspect is letting heat out. Apply weather strips or caulk to areas where you detect a leak.
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Protect the Pipes
Pipes can freeze and burst during cold weather. This is especially a problem with exposed drain or water pipes. If you have exposed pipes outside, in the attic, or in the basement, use foam insulation to protect them during the cold. You can also wrap them with heating tape first, before applying the insulation.
If you’re temporarily leaving your home for a warmer location, turn the water supply off completely. This means find the homes water supply valve, and make sure it’s off. You’ll also want to drain the pipes after the water is turned off. This will eliminate the risk of a pipe bursting while you’re away.
All of these tips may seem like a lot to remember every year, but it is a much bigger hassle to fix your house in the winter than it is to check your house in the fall.