Is Your Home Winter Ready?

Winter is associated with various adverse weather conditions. You may experience heavy snow, freezing temperatures, wind chill, accumulation of ice, and even winter storms. As winter approaches, there is a question you should ask yourself: Is your home ready for winter? Here are a few tips to make your home winter-ready.

1. Check Your Heating and Air Conditioning System

Before winter arrives, be sure to check your heating and air conditioning system. Contact an experienced and reliable HVAC expert to inspect and do necessary repairs or replacements on your HVAC system. At the very least, replace filters, remove moisture, and evaluate your home’s temperature after the system has been inspected and repaired. Your HVAC system should be functional and ready for winter.

2. Do Furnace Maintenance

Nearly 60% of homes in the United States are heated with gas-fired forced-air furnaces. If you have a furnace in your home, call an expert to do furnace maintenance. The expert will change the furnace filters, reprogram the thermostat, and clear any clutter inside or around your furnace. A well-maintained furnace will keep your home warm when the temperature freezes.

3. Inspect Your Roof

Call a roofing contractor to inspect your roof and prepare it for winter. The professionals should check for damaged or missing shingles, damaged flashing, roof leaks, or freezing damages. They should also inspect the caulking around your chimney and air vents. Any minor issues should be repaired to strengthen the integrity of your roof.

4. Clear Your Gutters

Besides inspecting your roof, it is imperative to clear your gutters of leaves, small branches, and other debris. Clogged gutters could prevent rain and melting snow from draining and causing water leaks. Additionally, ensure your downspouts are pouring water several feet from your house. Clearing gutters and downspouts will prevent flooding near your house.

5. Inspect Tree Branches

Walk around your home and inspect trees around the house, driveway, walkway, and garage. Tree branches can fall and cause damages and injuries during winter storms and snowfall. It would be best to cut off dead and damaged branches around these areas to prevent potential damages and injuries. Contact an arborist to help you trim the trees.

Following these tips will help you make your home ready for winter. Contact a furnace expert if you need furnace maintenance or have any questions about increasing your furnace’s efficiency.