So you’ve completed the winterization process on your home’s windows and doors, now it’s time to concentrate on the plumbing and roof. I don’t know where you live, but here in the Upper Midwest meteorologists are warning of an Artic blast that’s making its way down from Canada. They say by the end of the week our daytime highs won’t get out of the mid 20’s.
For residents around here now’s the time to wrap the outside hose bibs. Resist the newspaper-and-duct-tape method (once water seeps through the newspaper your covering will be rendered useless, and that’s not saying anything about the soggy mass of paper that can foster mold growth). Instead head out to your local hardware store and pick up a pipe insulation kit. Or, you can opt to purchase one of those removable foam covers, which allow you access to the bib with just a few twists of a latch.
You need to check interior pipes, too, especially the ones that are exposed such as in attics and crawl spaces. Many residents also insulate their hot water heaters as well. Since most hot water heaters are located in unheated areas of a person’s home they end up losing a tremendous amount of heat. Experts say an insulating blanket can cut energy use by almost 40 percent.
Finally, if you haven’t done so already, it’s a good idea to drain your sprinkler system and hoses. If you don’t you could be in for a nasty surprise when you turn your sprinklers on in the spring.
Moving on and up… your roof and gutters. If you are stringing holiday lights from the roof, take a moment while you’re up there to look for any missing shingles (they will let warmth spill out if not replaced). When you are done inspecting the shingles, head over to the gutters. Be sure to clear all leaves out of your gutters. Fallen leaves hold water which, once frozen, will be a very heavy weight pulling the gutters off the house.
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Getting Your Home Ready For Winter-Part 1: The Furnace
Winterizing Your Home: 10 Ways To Lower Your Gas Bill
Decorating Your Home For The Holidays—Tips On How NOT To Become a Statistic