Offered by Jan Hepp-Struck, Hepp Realty
It seems strange to be talking about getting your home ready for winter when we are still having 80+ degree days, but before you know it, we’ll have that first freeze and you don’t want to be caught off guard because that can lead to costly repairs.
Most importantly, turn off exterior water, disconnect any hoses, and remove the air valve cap (on the pipe near your exterior water turn-off), then run your sprinkler system to drain it of any residual water. It’s also advisable to cover exterior pipes with foam insulation and faucets with a foam cover, or simply wrap them with a protective covering of rags, sock, etc.
Next, check your home exterior, basement, and garage, for any cracks or small openings. Fill them with steel wool or spray foam to prevent pesky rodents from getting inside. Mice can actually enter through a hole about the size of a dime!
You’ll most likely want to call a HVAC company to winterize your air conditioner and do a furnace check prior to turning it on for the season. Additionally, if you have ceiling fans, flip that switch to reverse the blades so they are blowing the air down instead of pulling it up. That way it keeps the warm air circulating where you are instead of rising to the ceiling, and this is especially important if you have vaulted ceilings!
Last, it’s good to check the caulking around your windows to make sure cold air isn’t sneaking in. And another very easy DIY winterization trick is to install inexpensive insulation foam in your light switches and electrical outlets. Those little foam pieces cost hardly anything, but can save you a surprising amount on your utility bills.
For proven expertise in buying or selling a home, please call Jan at 303.520.4340
Click here to view Hepp Realty on The Brighton Buzz Business Directory
