As the chilly winter months approach, your home must be well-prepared for the seasonal shift. Because a cozy and secure home in winter calls for a solid prep plan. To keep your home safe and snug during winter, it’s key to have a solid game plan for dealing with the tough weather conditions that come along. To protect your home and family from winter’s harshness, regularly maintain things like insulation, weather stripping, heating systems, snow removal, and emergency preparedness.
1. Weatherproof Your Windows: Install Energy-Efficient Cellular Shades
According to the Department of Energy, investing in cellular shades can significantly contribute to energy savings during the winter. Cellular shades work like a charm for insulation. Their goal is to catch air in their unique honeycomb cells and serve as an extra layer to keep home heat from slipping away. Pop these cellular shades on your windows, and you’re looking at knocking up to 20% off your heating energy use while slashing around 15% off overall heating and cooling costs. This is a nifty way of keeping your place warm without draining your wallet.
2. Seal Entry Points: Keep Unwanted Guests at Bay
With dropping temperatures, rodents and pests often seek refuge in warm and cozy indoor spaces, making it crucial to seal potential entry points to prevent unwelcome infestations. According to the CDC, rodents can squeeze through the smallest spaces. For example, mice squeeze through a hole the size of a nickel, and rats manage to fit through a hole the size of a half dollar. Inspect your home for any gaps or cracks in the foundation, walls, or windows. Once you find them, you want to seal them with weather-stripping or caulk. Keeping those cold drafts out not only keeps your place comfy but also puts a dent in those hefty energy bills. Additionally, your doors should have tight-fitting sweeps to deter any unwanted visitors from making their way into your home.
3. Prioritize HVAC Maintenance: Schedule Biannual Servicing
Your HVAC system plays a pivotal role in maintaining a comfortable and temperate indoor environment during the winter months. According to Review Home Warranties, experts recommend scheduling professional servicing for your HVAC system twice a year, ideally before the onset of winter and again in the spring. Regular maintenance, including filter replacements, thermostat checks, and overall system inspections, can enhance the efficiency and longevity of your HVAC unit.
4. Protect Your Plumbing: Prevent Freezing Pipes
To prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting during cold spells, be sure to insulate them properly. In addition, you should let your taps trickle a bit to keep the water moving and lessen the chance of pipes freezing or causing water havoc. Don’t stop at your plumbing; you want to take care of your roof, too. It’s a smart idea to give your roof and gutters a once-over to dodge any leaky surprises. Clear debris from your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and prevent ice dams. Inspect your roof for any damaged shingles or leaks and address any issues promptly to avoid potential water damage. If you don’t feel up to the task, contact a professional to provide inspections for you.
With these essential winter home care tips, you can strengthen your pad’s protection, amp up energy efficiency, and carve out a snug and secure spot for your family. Get your place winter-ready and cozy by setting up heat-trapping cellular shades, sealing off drafty windows and spots, and making sure your HVAC system is on its A-game. However, insulating your home and maintaining your HVAC will keep you warm when it’s freezing out.
