Tips to Maintain Your Home During the Cooler Months

Preventing Costly Repairs and Maintaining a Healthy Home When It’s Cold Outside

 

Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

 

Now that the weather has turned to “winter” and regardless of your neighborhood, home size or style, maintaining your home is one of the most important things you can do. While the space that you live in reflects your lifestyle and/or personality, it is important to keep your home in good condition.

Factoring in home repairs and maintenance that will save you time and money will go a long way as the weather gets colder. While conditions may not be frightful just yet, keeping these useful tips in mind will put you and your wallet at ease.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Leaky pipes can become problematic over time and lead to flooding, mold issues, foundation trouble, and diminished water quality. Frozen pipes can lead to leaks, and even more costly problems because when water freezes within the pipe, the expanding ice can cause pressure which leads to bursting and additional costly issues.

To ensure that your pipes remain intact, it is helpful to address all areas that need fixing and winterize your outside water sources. You can call a plumber, or attempt winterizing your outside pipes by doing the following – shut off the main water valve and pump, as well as the water heater to start, this way you can drain all of the outside valves and taps which should remain open throughout the winter. You may also blow excess water out of the pipes and discharge water out of the drain taps. As an extra precaution you can add antifreeze. Don’t forget to turn the water main & hot water heater back on so the rest of your house can function.

One last thing … foam rubber-pipe insulation can be wrapped around pipes to protect them against cold weather conditions.

Replace Air Filters

There are various key benefits to regularly replacing your air filters if you have a hot air furnace. Your HVAC system will run more efficiently, air filter replacement will reduce allergy symptoms, and you will save money by properly maintaining the filters and keeping vents clean.

Changing your air filters every 1-3 months can greatly effect the quality of your home’s air. Make sure that the MERV rating of your purchased filter also correctly coincides with your home’s needs.

 

Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can save your life when properly placed and it is CT State law that you have smoke & CO detectors in the home.

These alarms beep loudly to ensure that you can hear them and get to safety quickly if there is a fire, gas, fumes or other sources of heat around. Usually inexpensive and easy to install, smoke alarms can last up to 10 years.

CO detectors, on the other hand, have the potential of detecting carbon monoxide, a gas also known as, “the silent killer” due to it’s colorless, odorless quality, which can emit fumes that can cause illness or death. Carbon monoxide detectors are triggered when the gas is found within the environment and sound an alarm to alert people of danger. Unlike smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors typically last 5-7 years.

 

As we enter into cooler weather, make sure your home is prepared. Keep these sound tips in mind and you’ll be on your way to a healthier, happier home.

 

Post Courtesy of Paul@DadKnows DIY

No copyright infringement is intended.