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Brrr - getting ready for the deep freeze
OK - I just found a list for winterizing your home. Do you folks have anything to add?
With winter on its way, in the Northern Hemisphere, it is a good idea to check out everything around the house to be sure it is ready for the next season. Here's a handy checklist to get you started.
FURNACE
Cleaned and inspected once a year
Clean or replace filters once a month over winter
Lubricate furnace motor.
Clean registers, vents and duct openings.
Remove any combustible materials from the area.
Check flue or chimney. Clean, or hire someone to clean them.
INSULATION
Check insulation in basement and attic. Increasing attic insulation will make your home more energy efficient in winter and cooler in the summer.
Cover any exposed pipes with insulation.
Insulate water heater.
Add weather stripping to doors and windows if needed.
Insulate electrical outlets. There are kits available for this.
OUTDOORS
Gutters & Downspouts
Inspect, clean out, and repair rain gutters and down spouts.
Install gutter guards to keep gutters free of leaves and debris.
Make sure gutter spouts drain away from the foundation.
Roof & Chimney
Check that ridge vents are unobstructed.
Check and repair or replace any missing, cracked, curled, broken or rotted shingles.
Check the roof anywhere it is penetrated by a chimney, vent, dormer, or skylight. A metal flashing should protect each joint and each edge should be sealed with roof cement to prevent leaks.
Install a screen-chimney cap to prevent birds or other critters from entering the chimney.
Windows & Doors
Check every window (attic and basement, too) for cracks or broken glass.
Check around windows and doors for drafts. Caulk or weather-strip as needed.
Exterior doors need new doorstops if you can see light under them.
Old drafty windows can be covered with heavy-duty, clear plastic.
Clean and install storm windows.
Install basement storm windows to reduce heat loss and prevent condensation.
Siding
Check around pipes, dryer vents, or other places where cold air can enter your home. Caulk liberally with gun or trowel.
Repair or replace loose and/or warped siding.
Decks, Patios, & Porches
Apply an extra coat of waterproof sealant to wooden decks and porches.
Inspect supports and foundations for separation or rot.
Store or cover outdoor furniture, grills, and planters.
Check lights and timers. Reset timers for earlier darkness.
Outdoor Plumbing
Turn off and drain sprinkling system.
Drain, coil and store garden hoses.
Turn off and drain faucets.
I also read somewhere about putting antifreeze in your toilet?? Is that for a septic tank?
Someone also told me to set a faucet to trickle every night to prevent freezing.
Thanks for your help.
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