Winter Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Home Cozy and Functional

Winter brings the joy of the holiday season and spending cozy but cold nights inside, but it also ushers in a set of challenges for homeowners. From cold temperatures to blustery, wet weather, your home requires special attention to ensure it remains cozy and functional throughout the winter months. We’ve put together some essential winter maintenance tips to keep your home in top shape.

HVAC System Inspection

Start your winter home maintenance routine by checking your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Here's what you should focus on:

• Furnace Inspection: Schedule a professional to inspect and service your furnace. Replace filters regularly to ensure efficient operation.
• Thermostat Settings: Adjust your thermostat settings for winter. Consider investing in a programmable thermostat for better control and energy efficiency.
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Check and replace the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide leaks can be dangerous and are more common during colder months when heating systems are in use.

Stop Heat Loss

Cold air drafts and attic heat loss can significantly impact your home's energy efficiency. Take these steps to keep the warmth in and the cold out:

• Caulk and Weatherstripping: Seal gaps around windows and doors using caulk and weatherstripping. This simple step prevents heat loss and reduces energy bills.
• Door Sweeps: Install door sweeps at the bottom of exterior doors to block drafts. This small addition makes a big difference in maintaining a cozy indoor temperature.
• Attic Insulation: Over time, attic insulation can become less efficient. It is recommended that you have it inspected and upgraded every 15 years to prevent heat loss in the winter months and keep heating costs down.

Roof and Gutter Maintenance

Winter precipitation can take a toll on your roof and gutters. Follow these tips to prevent potential issues:

• Roof Inspection: Check for damaged or missing shingles. Replace any that are compromised to prevent leaks.
• Gutter Cleaning: Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage.

Protecting Pipes from Freezing

Frozen pipes can result in costly repairs. Safeguard your plumbing system with these precautions:

• Insulation: Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as the attic or crawl spaces.
• Dripping Faucets: Allow faucets to drip slightly during extremely cold nights to prevent pipes from freezing.

Winterize Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor areas need attention, too. Properly winterizing these spaces ensures they remain in good condition:

• Lawn Equipment: Store outdoor furniture, grills, and gardening tools in a dry place to prevent damage.
• Sprinkler Systems: Drain and shut off sprinkler systems to prevent freezing and damage.

Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance

If you have a fireplace, make sure it's ready for use during the colder months:

• Chimney Inspection: Schedule a professional chimney inspection and cleaning to remove creosote buildup.
• Fireplace Safety: Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks, and only burn seasoned firewood.

Winter maintenance is a crucial aspect of homeownership, ensuring your home remains comfortable and functional despite the challenges posed by the season. By taking the time to inspect and address potential issues, you'll enhance your home's energy efficiency and protect it from potential winter-related damage. These tips will help you enjoy a cozy and worry-free winter season in the comfort of your well-maintained home.

Brightwork Realty can help match you with one of our trusted resources if you need to do some winter maintenance on your home. Give us a call at (925) 200-6000 or click here so we can help you get your home in great shape this winter.