When the weather’s great it can be easy to forget how winter can be brutal. Nothing feels better than retreating into the warm, cozy confines of your home when the chill sets in. But to ensure those toasty vibes, there’s some important groundwork needed before the snow hits and temperatures plummet. And it can take months to get right, so now is the time to start thinking about it. Even if the beach is a more appealing option.
This advanced preparation not only guarantees warmth but also ensures energy efficiency and safety throughout the colder months. Here’s what you need to do to ready your home for winter’s icy embrace.
Seal Those Drafts
One of the worst culprits stealing away warmth is unnoticed drafts. Start by checking around windows and doors where air could be slipping in. Simple solutions like foam weather stripping, caulking gaps, and adding draft stoppers can make a world of difference.
Don’t overlook the less obvious places where drafts can seep in, such as electrical outlets, baseboards, and even around fireplace mantels. These small gaps add up, letting the cold in and the warmth out. Utilising outlet sealers and foam gaskets is a simple way to tackle these minor but impactful issues. By tightly securing every nook and cranny, you’ll not only feel warmer but save significantly on your heating bill, too.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for keeping cool. Reversing the direction during winter can push warm air, which naturally rises, back down into the room. Most fans come with a switch to change rotation direction—a simple adjustment that aids in maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Get the Furnace in Check
Your furnace is your home’s heart during winter. Ensure it’s beating strongly by scheduling a maintenance check-up. This check should include changing filters, inspecting the system for wear and tear, and ensuring there are no gas leaks. A properly serviced furnace operates efficiently and reduces energy costs.
If you’re looking for more detailed assistance in servicing your HVAC systems, there are HVAC services available that offer professional help to ensure everything is running smoothly before the winter chill sets in.
Consider investing in a furnace tune-up to keep it running smoothly and catch any potential problems early. Professional technicians can adjust, lubricate, and clean essential components, extending the lifespan of your furnace. Additionally, check for any visible signs of wear and replace old parts when necessary. Keeping your furnace in top condition not only saves money but also prevents inconvenient breakdowns during the coldest months.
Water Works
Winter is unforgiving on pipes. To prevent them from freezing, insulate any exposed piping in crawl spaces, attics, or garages. When temperatures really drop, keep a slow trickle of water running through faucets, as this can prevent freezing. Disconnect external hoses and shut off outdoor water supply valves to avoid potential damage.
Insulate with Intention
Insulation is your home’s coat during the freezing months. Inspect attics, walls, and basements to ensure they’re adequately insulated. Add more where needed, especially in attics, which can be major heat-loss zones. A well-insulated home traps the heat inside, ensuring you stay warm without unnecessarily cranking up the heater.
While inspecting, don’t forget to take a close look at the insulation around water heaters and exposed pipes. Wrapping water heaters with insulation blankets saves significantly on energy as they reduce the heat loss. Similarly, insulating pipes helps ensure that your hot water stays hot from the heater to the tap, preventing additional energy costs and guaranteeing a cozy shower experience even amidst the frostiest weather.
Stock Up and Prepare
Prepare for the worst: unexpected storms and power outages are always a possibility. Keep emergency supplies like candles, batteries, and blankets handy. Have an ample stock of non-perishable food and a first-aid kit on hand. Being prepared ensures you won’t be caught off guard if the weather takes a turn.
Embrace the Thermostat
Programmable thermostats are one of winter’s secret weapons. Set lower temperatures when you’re away or asleep and let the thermostat work its magic to conserve energy. Even a slight reduction in daily temperature can result in noticeable energy savings without compromising comfort.
Flooring Fix
Cold floors translate to cold feet. Invest in rugs and carpets to add warmth to hardwood or tile flooring; maybe even consider investing in underfloor heating. Using thick curtains can also trap heat inside and keep the chill at bay. Cozy toes make for a happier winter experience.
Chimney Duty
If you have a chimney, it’s imperative to clean and inspect it before the burning season begins. The risk of chimney fires and harmful gases can’t be overstated. Hiring a professional to ensure your chimney is safe and clear of obstructions is a small price for peace of mind and safety.
The Big Picture
As winter approaches, it’s important to be proactive. By sealing drafts, optimising furnace efficiency, and implementing smart heating tricks, you can guarantee a warm, cozy, and safe home environment. Winter is a time best spent enjoying the comfort of your cozy haven, not scrambling to fix preventable problems. Make these steps a priority, and you’ll be thankful as the snow begins to fall.
