As frost starts to linger in the air and snowflakes gracefully fall to the ground, homeowners in Vermont and Northwestern New Hampshire are gearing up for winter. The chilly weather not only affects the elements of your house but can also take a toll on your utility bills. To avoid the pricey consequences of high energy costs and unexpected repairs, it’s vital to winterize your home each year. Whether you’re a newcomer to the area or a seasoned homeowner, creating a Winterizing Your Home Checklist is essential. Here are some helpful tips to craft a comprehensive checklist that will cover your house from top to bottom.
When Should You Winterize Your Home?
Start getting your home ready for winter as early as fall by checking off tasks on your winterizing checklist. These top tips will guide you on how to prepare your home for the impending cold days in Vermont and Northwestern New Hampshire.
Essential Tips for Winterizing Your Home:
- Find and Seal Air Leaks
Cold air sneaking through gaps in windows, doors, and electrical outlets can drive your energy costs up. Check your home for drafts and seal any gaps using weatherstripping or caulk. A simple way to detect drafts is by using a lit candle – if the flame flickers near windows and doors, it’s time to seal the draft. -
Prepare Your Pipes
Frozen pipes can lead to water damage and costly repairs. Winter-proof your pipes by disconnecting outdoor hoses, covering outdoor faucets, and blowing out your sprinkler system to prevent freezing. Be sure you know where your main water shutoff is located in case of an emergency. -
Tune Up Your Heating System
Service your heating system before winter hits to ensure it’s running efficiently. Change filters regularly and consider installing a programmable thermostat to regulate your home’s temperature when you’re away. -
Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance
Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually to avoid fire hazards and smoke damage. If you have an unused chimney, block the airflow with a chimney balloon to keep out the cold. -
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure your gutters are clear of leaves and debris to prevent water backup and damage to your home. Inspect your roof for any damage that could lead to leaks during winter. -
Inspect Your Roof and Attic
Check your roof for missing shingles and patch up insulation in the attic to retain heat and prevent drafts. Addressing issues early on can prevent extensive damage later. -
Invest in Energy Efficient Updates
Upgrade older windows, doors, and insulation to save on energy costs. Take advantage of energy-efficient rebate programs in Vermont and New Hampshire to offset the costs. -
Cut Back Branches
Trim tree branches that pose a threat to your home during winter storms. Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to break and damage your property. -
Store and Inspect Seasonal Tools
Clean and store summer tools, and make sure winter tools like snow blowers and shovels are ready for use. Stock up on salt, sand, and deicing agents to prevent slips on icy surfaces. -
Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Check your supplies of salt, sand, batteries, and flashlights. Create a winter emergency kit with essential items like non-perishable food, water, medications, blankets, and fire-starting supplies.
From Preparation to Peace of Mind:
Winterizing your home is a crucial investment that can save you money on energy costs and prevent costly repairs. If you need financial assistance for winterization projects, consider a home equity loan from Union Bank. Protecting your home from winter damage not only ensures your comfort and safety but also increases the value of your property. Don’t wait for winter to catch you off guard – start planning your winterizing checklist today!
