Winter weather can quickly turn your property from beautiful to dangerous if you are unprepared. Before the temperatures drop at your home, read on to find out how to protect your home in winter. Here are some tips to keep your home in good condition and your family safe.
Check Your HVAC System to Protect Your Home in Winter
Furnaces that are damaged or broken can leak deadly carbon monoxide back into your home and put you at risk. Hire an HVAC company to service your furnace and repair any problems. The technician will inspect, clean, and report back on the condition of the system. If repairs are needed, they will order the parts and schedule a time to come back. Regular maintenance also improves the efficiency of your system and extends its lifespan.
Create an Emergency Winter Safety Kit
In the event that you lose your power during a winter storm, you will need quick access to things like flashlights and non-perishable food items. Take time to put together a winter safety kit that contains everything you might need, including:
- Fire extinguisher
- Flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps
- Extra batteries to allow all flashlights to operate for up to 72 hours continuously
- Blankets
- Nonperishable food items and bottled water
- First aid kit
- Medications
Make sure that you place your winter safety kit in a spot that is easy to access and inform all members of your family about where it’s located.
Check the Batteries in Your Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Tragically, every year many people die due to house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning during the winter months. Your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are two critical tools that will help to keep your family safe. Change the batteries once a year in the winter and check the expiration date to verify that the detector itself is not expired.
Clear Out Your Gutters to Protect Your Home in Winter
As the snow melts on your roof, the water will flow into your gutters and should be properly directed away from your property. If your gutters are filled with leaves and other debris, the gutters cannot function as intended.
When the water doesn’t drain away from the home, it will overflow from your gutters and may pool around the foundation or cause dangerous ice dams. Clean the gutters to prevent water damage to your home and property.
Change Your HVAC Filters
Indoor air quality plays a major role in your health and well-being, especially when you are spending more time indoors in the winter. Always change your HVAC filter at least once a quarter. Consider replacing it once a month when you are using your furnace regularly, if you have indoor allergies, or if you have pets.
