How to Keep Your Home Running Efficiently Through the Winter Season
Winter’s chill can bring beautiful moments, but it also demands extra care for your home. At Progress Residential, we believe proactive preparation can help you enjoy a cozy, worry-free season while minimizing unexpected repairs or costs.
Give Your Heater a Head Start
Your heater is the star of winter comfort, so ensure it’s ready to perform. Test it early by raising your thermostat a few degrees and listening for the system to kick on. If nothing happens, check your thermostat batteries or circuit breakers.
When the heater starts, a dusty smell might emerge don’t worry! This happens when dust burns off unused coils. Ventilate the room briefly, and the smell should fade. However, persistent odors or unusual noises mean it’s time to call in a professional.
TIP: A simple, but clever tip from energy.gov suggests that you open the curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your home, and close them at night to keep out the chill from the cold glass.
Keep Your Gutters Flowing
Rain gutters shield your home from water damage, but they need some TLC to work effectively. During fall, gutters often clog with leaves and debris, potentially causing water to overflow and damage your home’s foundation or walls.
Clear your gutters early in the season, and inspect for cracks, rust, or loose brackets. Unsure about maintenance responsibilities? If you’re renting, double-check with your property manager to understand who handles what, especially for higher or harder-to-reach gutters.
Guard Against Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are more than an inconvenience they can lead to costly repairs. Protect yours with simple steps:
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam covers or heat tape for pipes in unheated areas like basements or garages.
- Prepare Outdoor Fixtures: Drain and shut off outdoor water lines, including hoses and sprinklers. Use insulated covers for exterior faucets.
- Let Warm Air Circulate: On freezing nights, leave cabinet doors open under sinks to allow heat in, and consider letting faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing.
Most importantly, locate your main water shut-off valve so you’re ready to act quickly if a pipe bursts.
Stay Warm and Worry-Free This Winter
Preparing your home for winter is about staying safe and stress-free. Small actions like testing your heater, clearing gutters, and protecting pipes can save you from bigger headaches later. By tackling these tasks early, you’ll enjoy a warm and comfortable home all season long.
Let’s make winter wonderful! At Progress Residential, we’re here to support you with practical advice for a home that feels as good as it works.
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