Taking a few simple steps can help prevent frozen pipes, reduce energy costs, and keep your home or apartment warm throughout the season.
What to Do When Temperatures Drop
- If you’ll be away from home, keep your thermostat set between 55-60°F to prevent pipes from freezing.
- When temperatures fall below zero, let both the hot and cold faucets drip slowly to keep water moving through the pipes.
Quick Interior Winterization Tips
- Check for drafts around doors. An easy and affordable fix is using a draft guard or another product that slides under the door threshold.
- Inspect window edges for drafts. A window insulation kit may not be the most visually appealing solution, but it can help keep cold air out and reduce heating costs.
- Use a programmable thermostat to lower the heat while you're away. However, never turn the heat off completely, as this can cause pipes to freeze.
- Schedule an HVAC service before winter begins to ensure your furnace is running efficiently. Also, don’t forget to replace the furnace filter regularly to maintain optimal performance.
Quick Exterior Winterization Tips
- Shut off and drain all exterior water lines as soon as temperatures drop below freezing. Failing to do so can cause water inside the pipes to freeze and crack them.
- Check exterior windows and seal any gaps with caulk to prevent drafts and heat loss.
- Clear gutters of debris to allow melting snow and rain to drain properly. This helps prevent ice dams, which can lead to roof damage.
- Ensure your attic is properly insulated. Poor insulation allows heat to escape, which can melt roof snow, causing it to refreeze and form damaging ice dams.
By taking these simple precautions, you can save time, money, and avoid costly winter-related issues. A little preparation now can make a big difference when the cold weather arrives!
