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Energy Saving Tips and Getting the House Ready for Winter
It's time to think about winterizing your house, no matter whether you'll
be there all winter or plan to be away for an extended period. The tasks
aren't overwhelming when you prepare for winter one step at a time, and if
you plan to be home, you'll be glad you did, because the steps you take will
protect your property and save you dollars in heating costs.
Seal Leaks around Doors and Windows
- Add or replace worn weather-stripping around doors and windows.
- Caulk gaps where necessary.
- Replace worn door stops at the bottom of doors.
- If you have them, install storm doors and windows. Don't forget to
winterize basement windows.
- Replace old windows with energy efficient windows.
-
Seal Other Leaks
- Use caulking and weather-stripping around entry points for all pipes
and ducts that travel through an exterior wall.
- Install insulating kits behind electrical plugs that are on a wall
with an exterior side.
Is the Insulation Adequate?
Proper attic insulation keeps your home warmer in the winter and cooler
in the summer.
Ask the staff at your local home improvement center how much insulation is
recommended in your area, then check your attic insulation to make sure it's
adequate.
Some homes benefit from additional wall insulation. Home improvement center
staff will explain types of insulation that can be added to existing walls.
Heating System Checks
- Have a heating professional do a routine-check before cold weather
arrives.
- Vacuum the vents and other heating components.
- If it has one, replace the furnace filter. Make future replacements
as needed or directed by your furnace manufacturer.
- Consider installing a setback thermostat. It regulates the temperature,
allowing the home to be cooler when you are away or asleep.
- Fill oil or propane tanks.
Check the Fireplace
Check the Roof & Its Neighbors
- Replace loose shingles.
- Make sure the flashing around the chimney or vent pipes is watertight.
- Check the bricks and mortar.
- Install a screen at the top of the chimney to keep leaves and other
items out.
- Clean drain gutters and point downspouts away from the house.
- Trim tree limbs that are hanging over or touching the roof.
Winterize the Plumbing
- Take care of known issues with pipes that freeze. Heat tape can be
used to keep them warm during extremely cold weather.
- Learn how to turn off water at its source so that you can stop leaks
immediately if they start.
- Drain water from outdoor faucets when you think a hard freeze is coming.
Winterizing Outdoor Items
- Give decks an additional coat of sealer.
- Check the foundation and siding for cracks or gaps. Repair as necessary.
- Drain garden hoses, roll them up, and store them inside.
- Close and cover the swimming pool.
- Prune shrubbery and add mulch to perennial flower beds.
- Cover outdoor furniture or store it inside.
Collect Emergency Supplies
- Candles and matches or a small butane lighter.
- Flashlight and batteries.
- Fill propane tank or buy charcoal for outdoor grills.
- Battery operated radio or weather radio. Buy extra batteries.
- Snow blower, shovels, and/or chemicals to melt snow.
- Containers of bottled water. Non perishable food to last a few days.
Be sure you have a hand operated can opener.
- Paper plates and plastic eating utensils. Paper towels.
- Extra firewood. Fuel for your generator. Kerosene and kerosene heater
(use with carbon monoxide monitoring strips).
That's a start! There may be additional winterizing duties that are important
for your area. If you're new to town, ask your neighbors how they prepare
for winter.
Important
disclaimer information about the information above that is from this
About site.
Mississauga MLS Real Estate Properties & MLS.CA Homes for Sale | All Pages including Mississauga Real Estate Blog all maintained by info@mississauga4sale.com Copyright © A. Mark Argentino, P.Eng., Broker, RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc., Brokerage, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L5M 7A1 (905) 828-3434 First created - Tuesday, July 16th, 1996 at 3:48:41 PM - Last Update of this website: Tuesday, April 9, 2024 7:24 AM
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