Winter’s Arrival: Your Home Maintenance Survival Guide
As we enter December, it's the perfect time to ensure your home is ready for the colder months ahead. Taking action now on key maintenance tasks will help keep your space warm, safe, and energy-efficient all season long. From insulating your windows to prepping your furnace, a little attention now can save you time, money, and discomfort when the snow starts to fall. Let’s dive into the essential steps to make sure your home is winter-ready.
1. Keep the Cold Out and Warmth In
Prevent heat from escaping by inspecting doors and windows for gaps, then use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them tightly. This simple fix can help cut heating costs by up to 20%. Don't forget your attic — proper insulation keeps the cold at bay. If drafts persist around windows, check for damaged caulk or consider upgrading to more energy-efficient windows with multiple panes to further enhance comfort and reduce energy bills. Regular checks ensure your home stays warm and cozy without wasting energy.
2. Furnace TLC
Your furnace works overtime during the winter, so give it the care it deserves. Schedule a professional inspection to check for wear and tear, replace filters to improve airflow, and ensure it’s running efficiently so you don’t get left in the cold. If you notice noisy belts, poor performance, or erratic behaviour, these could signal underlying issues like blocked ducts, misadjusted burners, or a faulty thermostat. Don't wait until the chill sets in — an inspection can prevent inconvenient heating issues during the winter season.
Photo Credit: Coolpro Heating and Cooling
3. Get Your Gutters Ready
Your roof’s drainage system plays a critical role in protecting your home by redirecting thousands of gallons of water away from your foundation. Clogged gutters can cause exterior damage, basement flooding, and even accelerate rust and corrosion. To prevent these issues, clean your gutters regularly, especially before winter storms arrive. Installing mesh gutter guards will help keep debris out and maintain proper water flow, safeguarding your home against water damage year-round.
4. Fireplace Maintenance for Cozy Winter Nights
Even if used infrequently, your fireplace needs an annual inspection to ensure safety. Check the flue for creosote buildup, which can cause dangerous fires, and schedule a professional chimney sweep for a thorough inspection. Also, inspect the chimney for damage, obstructions, and ensure the flue cap is intact to prevent bird nests. Lastly, test the damper to make sure it opens and closes properly for efficient operation throughout the season.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and clean them using a soft brush attachment. Afterward, test their functionality by pressing the test button or simulating smoke with a blown-out candle near the unit. If you haven't yet, make sure to install detectors on every floor, including the basement, for added safety throughout your home.
Photo Credit: Avail
By staying proactive and taking these steps, you’ll ensure your home is warm, safe, and energy-efficient all winter long. Preparing now means less stress when the cold weather hits and a cozier, more comfortable season ahead.
