Homeowners know that winter weather can take a toll on their homes.  From the heavy snow and ice to the freezing temperatures, there are a lot of things that can go wrong.  But by taking some time to prepare your home for winter, you can avoid many of these problems. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Have Your Furnace Checked and Serviced

Leaks can occur in furnaces and those can create serious carbon monoxide issues. So, it's important to make sure your furnace is in good working order before you need to use it. You should also change the batteries in your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors.

Turn Off Water Valves to the Outside Faucets

One of the things you need to do before winter sets in is turn off the outdoor water faucets. If you leave them on and the temperatures drop below freezing, the water in the pipes can freeze and expand, cracking the pipes. You should also drain any remaining water from the pipes by opening up the outdoor faucets and letting them run until they're empty. It's recommended to leave them open all winter.

Make Sure Gutters and Downspouts are Clear

It's important to clear leaves from your gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams from forming. Ice dams occur when melting snow refreezes at the edge of your roof, creating a dam that prevents water from draining properly. This can lead to leaks and water damage inside your home. To avoid this, clear leaves and other debris from your gutters and downspouts so that they can drain properly.

Set Your Central Humidifier to 35-40%

The humidifier in your central heating and cooling system can do more than just prevent dry skin during the winter months. By keeping the relative humidity in your home between 35 and 40 percent, you can also reduce static electricity, which can damage delicate electronics, and prevent wood floors and trim from shrinking or cracking. So before you crank up the heat this winter, be sure to adjust your humidifier accordingly. Your skin, your furniture, and your wallet will thank you.

Check the weatherstripping around exterior doors

One of the best (and easiest) ways to improve your home's energy efficiency is to check the weatherstripping around your windows and doors. Weatherstripping helps to seal gaps and cracks, preventing warm air from escaping your home in the winter and cool air from entering in the summer. Over time, weatherstripping can become worn or damaged, so it's important to inspect it regularly and replace it as needed.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid many of the problems that homeowners face in winter. But if you're not sure where to start, or if you have more questions, please give me a call. I'd be happy to help you learn more about your home and how to prepare it for winter weather. And if you're thinking about selling your home, I can provide you with a market analysis and help you get started on the listing process. Don't wait until it's too late - now is the time to start preparing your home for winter!

‍