Winter-Home-Maintenance-Tips

10 Winter Home Maintenance Tips

As winter arrives, you’re probably focused on preparing for the holidays. Thereafter, you may be looking forward to warmer spring weather. Cold air, snow, and ice can take a toll on your home during the months in between. These winter home maintenance tips, which include scheduling heating maintenance with Call the Whale, can help avoid costly problems and allow you to settle in for the season:

  1. Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors
  2. Move Patio Furniture Indoors
  3. Switch the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan
  4. Turn Off Exterior Faucets
  5. Stock Up on Supplies
  6. Test the Sump Pump
  7. Clean the Roof Gutters
  8. Have Your Roof Inspected
  9. Get Your Chimney and Fireplace Inspected
  10. Schedule Furnace Maintenance
  1. Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors: Drafts from spaces around windows and doors can allow cold air in. They can make you uncomfortable and also cause your furnace to work harder and waste energy. You can seal these spaces by applying caulk around door and window trims. Weatherstripping can also be installed to create an airtight seal around the edges of windows and doors.
  1. Move Patio Furniture Indoors: Wood, plastic, wicker, or resin furniture should be stored indoors for the winter (as should cushions, patio umbrellas, and other accessories). Harsh weather can cause damage and you’ll end up having to buy all new furniture in the spring. Also, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for properly cleaning each item before you bring it inside, and consider covering furniture to protect it throughout the season.
  1. Switch the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan: The reverse switch on your ceiling fan changes its direction from counterclockwise to clockwise. The motion generates an updraft that pulls cold air toward the ceiling, displacing rising warmer air toward the floor, where you can feel it. This not only makes you more comfortable. It can reduce the heating load on your furnace, even if you turn the thermostat down a few degrees. Plus, it can save energy and slow down wear and tear on your heating system.
  1. Turn Off Exterior Faucets: If you have outdoor faucets, turn off their shutoff valves and disconnect garden hoses. Freezing temperatures can cause exterior pipes to freeze and burst, so this is a beneficial home maintenance task. In addition, open and close the outside tap to release any water remaining inside. You can also place an insulated cover over outside faucets to protect them from cold temperatures and ice.
  1. Stock Up on Supplies: Stocking up before the cold and snow arrive avoids rushing to the hardware store during winter weather. Check on the equipment you have and purchase new snow shovels if necessary. Also, purchase ice melt and salt ahead of time to avoid a visit to the store when these items are out of stock. 
  1. Test the Sump Pump: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing your sump pump. Depending on the unit, you may be able to use a garden hose and fill the pit; the pump should start running as the water level rises. Schedule professional maintenance every year. This ensures the system pumps out water that drains in from under and around your home.
  1. Clean the Roof Gutters: Clear leaves, twigs, and debris from the gutters and downspouts. If they’re clogged, water damage can occur. Also, look for problems such as loose gutters and insect or rodent infestations. If you’re comfortable with these tasks, you can do them yourself; otherwise, you can call a professional to handle them and make sure your roof drainage system is functional.
  1. Have Your Roof Inspected: Inspect your roof yourself if equipped and able to, or hire a professional for the job. Small issues like broken or missing shingles can lead to bigger problems when there’s snow, ice, and sleet. Completing minor repairs before the season can prevent damage that can lead to floods and structural issues.
  1. Get Your Chimney and Fireplace Inspected: If you rely on a warm fire to stay comfortable, it’s important to have your chimney and fireplace inspected. It’s best to hire a chimney sweeper to ensure everything is properly cleaned. They’ll also clear your vents to prevent gas buildup. A professional also checks the gas lines for leaks or other issues to fix.
  1. Schedule Furnace Maintenance: To ensure your heating system runs smoothly and safely all winter, change the furnace filter (do this at least every three months). You should also call an HVAC maintenance professional to inspect, clean, and tune up your furnace every year. This ensures the system provides the comfort you need and runs efficiently all season.

Contact Us for Winter Home Maintenance Help

Call the Whale provides HVAC maintenance and other heating and cooling services. Our HVAC contractors near you in Vermont can ready your furnace, heat pump, or boiler for winter. We’re committed to ensuring your home is comfortable, safe, and efficient. Preparing for the colder months is important because the weather in the region can be unpredictable. To schedule your heating maintenance visit, contact us on the web or call 802-909-4253 for assistance.

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