LIFESTYLE
October 2024

As we move through autumn into winter, it's important to ensure that our homes are in top shape, inside and out. While other parts of the country worry about bursting pipes and freezing temperatures, in California and Arizona, the potential dangers are floods, wildfires, and falling branches. Preparation is key to avoid emergencies later. Here are 12 things you can do to keep heating costs down while staying warm and protecting your home from seasonal damage - and 10 extra tips for snowbirds heading south for the winter.

Home Maintenance Checklist:

Have your roof inspected for damage like broken shingles or clogged vents to avoid storm damage and water leaks.

  1. Install or upgrade your roof insulation to keep warm air in.

  2. Trim your trees back to protect your home from falling branches and fire jumps.

  3. If it's in the budget, upgrade to energy-efficient windows to prevent air leaks.

  4. Install storm shutters to protect windows in coastal or other high wind areas.

  5. Insulate your garage door to keep the inside warm (and make use of it as a home office or gym!)

  6. Reverse your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise. This creates an updraft that distributes warm air more evenly, saving up to 10% on heating bills.

  7. Check behind your kitchen stove and clothes dryer for gaps around exhaust pipes and seal if needed.

  8. Add rugs to tile and hardwood floors to create another layer of cozy insulation.

  9. Close curtains and drapes at night to conserve warmth.

  10. Drying more blankets and heavy winter clothing increases energy costs, so make sure to clean dryer vents regularly to prevent it from having to work harder.

  11. Review your homeowners' policy for specifics on coverage for potential winter damage including flash floods, mudslides, and wildfires.

Snowbirds - Winterize your home before you head south!

 In addition to the above tips, here are some important things to do before you leave:

  1. Shut off the water to appliances that won't be used in your absence, such as your washing machine, dishwasher, and hot water heater.

  2. Drain and shut off outdoor water sources and store garden hoses to prevent damage.

  3. Forward your mail, pause newspaper delivery, and ask a friend or family member to pick up any delivered packages.

  4. Make sure all alarm systems are working and activated.

  5. Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees to avoid freezing pipes.

  6. Avoid posting your travel plans on social media.

  7. Arrange for snow-shoveling after storms.

  8. Unplug small appliances - toaster, microwave, coffeemaker, hairdryers, electric toothbrushes - before you leave.

  9. Prevent ice dams with extra attic insulation. When heat escapes through the roof, it warms snow, which then refreezes into ice, causing water damage or even roof collapse.

  10. If you have a fireplace, get your chimney cleaned and inspected for any leaks.

 

We all have so much on our plates and on our minds these days, the last thing we need is an emergency that could have been prevented. Be proactive this fall to ensure that everything at home and in the garden is taken care of, so you can enjoy the holidays, cozy and warm with family and friends!


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