As winter is fast approaching, we should all start checking boxes off our home winter maintenance list. Let us help you check those boxes!
1. Check Batteries in Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Heating is the cause of 27% of structure fires during the winter months. You should always make sure all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working in your home. It is highly recommended to have smoke alarms in every room of your home, including hallways. Home maintenance should include checking the batteries in all alarms once a month.
2. Prevent Pipes from Freezing
When water freezes, it expands and can cause your pipes to burst. The best way to prevent frozen pipes, is to insulate pipes near windows, doors and unheated areas in your home. You should always disconnect your garden hose from the outside faucet to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
3. Clear Gutters
If you haven’t already, you should clear your gutters of debris including sticks, pine cones and leaves so melted snow will drain properly and direct downspouts away from your home’s foundation. This will prevent basement leaks and flooding.
4. Clean your dryer hose
A clogged dryer hose can be one of the biggest fire hazards in a household. According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S firefighters respond to approximately 14,630 house fires annually caused by dryers. You can easily prevent a house fire by cleaning your lint filter, emptying or replacing your dryer hose, and regularly checking the vent and exhaust.
5. Fireplace inspection and chimney sweep
Similar to a dryer hose, clogged chimneys can also lead to major problems in your home. A clogged chimney could lead to house fires as well as carbon monoxide poisoning. It is always recommended to have a yearly inspection. Another tip you should consider is to make sure the flue on your chimney is fully functional so when the fireplace is not in use, you don’t experience any drafts in your home.