10 WAYS TO WINTERIZE

As you're bundled up by the fire and spend a long winter season inside your cozy home, you want to be set for the winter, not worrying about repairs or replacements on major home items. Complete this checklist to ensure you'll have a care-free winter in your home.

TUNE UP THE HEATING SYSTEM

HVAC systems should be inspected by a technician to prevent expensive bills and repairs during cold winter months.

REVERSE THE CEILING FANS

Ceiling fans that run clockwise push the heat you're paying for down.

CLEAN THE GUTTERS

Make sure water can flow freely through your gutters and pipes to prevent icicles and damage caused from backed up water if there’s a storm.

CAULK AROUND WINDOWS AND DOORS

If you see gaps in your window and door frames, use exterior caulk to seal everything back up.

TEST YOUR DRAIN PUMPS

Flush water through your drains to see whether the pump turns on. You wouldn't want your pumps to give out and flood your home.

CHECK THE CHIMNEY

Conduct a smoke test on your chimney. Burn a small piece of paper in the fireplace, and if the smoke doesn’t escape the house, it’s time to call a chimney sweep.

CHECK THE DETECTORS

Experts recommend replacing the batteries in your smoke detectors twice a year and replacing the device is more than 5 years old.

PROTECT THE PIPES

If accessible, wrap each pipe in foam insulation to prevent the pipes from freezing and combusting in the winter.

REPLACE FILTERS

This will improve your heater’s efficiency and longevity, especially when used with high power throughout the winter months.

FLUSH THE WATER HEATER

Flush out all sediments and particles that accumulate in your water heater to help the unit’s efficiency.