As winter settles in, protecting your new home becomes paramount. Here are five essential tips to keep your home in pristine condition during the winter months.
- Prevent Bursting Pipes: Drain outdoor hoses and faucets to avoid freezing, which could lead to burst pipes and potential damage to your new home. Don’t forget to enlist professional help for draining in-ground irrigation systems.
- Maintain Efficient Heating: Guard against frozen pipes by ensuring your thermostat is running, even at 55 degrees. Insulate exposed pipes in unfinished basements and open cabinets during cold spells. Proactively maintain your furnace to avoid increased winter HVAC service costs.
- Sump Pump Check: Protect your home by regularly testing your sump pump, especially in winter. Ensure the pump’s pipe is exposed at the end to prevent freezing, which can lead to basement damage during rainy or snowy weather.
- Gutter and Extension Maintenance: Confirm that your gutters are clear and pointing water three to four feet away from your home’s foundation. Add extensions to downspouts for added protection against potential water damage.
- Safe De-Icing: If your home is two years old or newer, opt for safe de-icing agents like sand instead of salt to protect your outdoor concrete and asphalt from damage.
Winter-proofing your home is an investment in its longevity, ensuring a cozy and damage-free season ahead.
Source: homes.com
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
