Winter is quickly approaching, and here in The Twin Cities we know it is no joke. As a homeowner, you should be prepping your home during the fall for Mother Nature’s harsh winter elements. On our blog, we have decided to give you 5 tips on prepping your home for winter. Continue reading for some helpful information on combating the strong Minnesota winters.
Check your heating systems
One of the most important things you need to do to prepare for winter is to make sure that your heating system is working properly. The average heating system lasts between 15 to 20 years. With proper maintenance and regular inspections, your system should run efficiently and be ready to take on winter. If your heating system is malfunctioning, here are a few possible reasons why:
- Soiled or clogged filters
- Mechanical wear and tear
- Problems with a pilot light
- Malfunctioning thermostat
- Lack of maintenance
If your system is not functioning properly, contact Stafford Home Service Inc. and our trusted professionals will ensure that your heating system is working as efficiently as possible.
Drain your Outside Faucets
Your outside faucets are not properly protected from the cool weather and typically may freeze over the winter. Frozen outside faucets can split water lines connected to the inside of your home and cause costly flooding in your basement. Be sure to shut off the water valve connected to the outside spigot and let the water drain out. Also disconnect any hoses, sprinkler systems, and pools connected as well. You should leave your water shut off until next spring.
Clean your Gutters
Cleaning out your gutters is something you should do a few times a year. Ensuring that it is done before the temperatures drop below freezing is extremely important. Leftover leaves and debris may cause water to back up and become frozen in your gutters once the freezing temperatures arrive. Keeping your gutters clear will also allow the melting snow to drain out smoothly in the spring.
Check your Roof
Getting your roof checked before the cold weather arrives is important. The roof of your home is the first line of defense from rain, sleet, snow, and hail. You can either inspect the roof yourself or have a professional come and inspect it. If you decide to do it yourself, here are a few things to look for:
- Cracked shingles
- Missing shingles
- Bending shingles
Take care of your pipes
The last thing you want to deal with during the winter is a broken or cracked pipe caused by freezing temperatures. One of the best ways to protect your outside pipes is to use insulation that will keep them warm and secure. This should keep the water inside from freezing. Also, keep your garage door closed as much as possible to help protect your pipes, because it prevents the outside air from coming in.
Contact Stafford Home Service Inc.
We hope these 5 tips on prepping your home for winter help you stay safe and comfortable. At Stafford Home Service Inc., our priorities are your comfort and peace of mind. No job is too big or too small. Our trusted workmanship is focused on improving living or working environments for each and every customer. Contact us today to schedule your next service!
