- Clean and test smoke alarms.
- Change the furnace filter.
- Operate the heating system.
- Adjust seasonal dampers and registers. Confirm that cold air returns are clear of furniture or draperies.
- Check the fit of exterior doors – the thresholds are adjustable – you can use a flat head screwdriver to turn the screws and raise the threshold.
- REMOVE HOSES FROM EXTERIOR FAUCETS. “Frost Free” faucets will suffer a broken water line if the water in the hose freezes and expands into the pipe. This occurrence is not covered by your warranty. Close hose bib shut offs, located under sink cabinets or in garage, and open hose bib to drain out water.
- Clean gutters, check downspouts; confirm that splash-blocks (if applicable) drain away from the house.
- Avoid using de-icing agents that contain salt on concrete walkways and garages. This can lead to “pitting” of the concrete.
- DO NOT BLOCK FOUNDATION VENTS unless extreme weather is expected with below freezing temperatures. Blocking your foundation vents from fall to spring can cause excess moisture to collect in the crawl space. Cover only when necessary and remove once the temperatures rise.
- Decorate safely for the holidays. Do not overload circuits or use worn extension cords.
- KEEP SNOW / ICE CLEAR OF FURNACE AND HOT WATER HEATER EXHAUSTS. A build up of snow / ice around these exhausts will restrict the air-flow to the furnace and hot water heater that will cause these units to shut down.
- Window screens can be removed to keep them clean over the winter months.
As the cold and wet weather sets in, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your home serves you well through the coming months. Please take the time to check these items in and around your home and attend to any that need maintenance.
