Mahogany Luxury Homes

Winter and the cold air can sneak up on us.  Make sure you and your home are prepared by following the tips below on preparing your Home for Winter.

• You will need to check your furnace to make sure the thermostat is in proper working order. You’ll also need to change the filter before you need to use it and then every month throughout the winter.
• Make sure the caulking around all the windows and the doors of your home are in good repair. Check for peeling and cracks in the caulking. Replace the caulking, if necessary.
• If you have a fireplace, before starting a fire this winter, make sure to have your fireplace cleaned.
• Checking your smoke alarms is of utmost importance. Are they in good working order? Change out the batteries every year.
• Now is also a good time to think about getting a carbon monoxide detector. If you already have one, check to be sure it is working and go ahead and put in new batteries now. Carbon monoxide is deadly and this simple device can save lives.
• Install a door sweep to keep the warm air from escaping your home. These are very easy to install and inexpensive. Another thing you can use to prevent drafts from door gaps is a door ‘cozy’. It is a pillow about 2-1/2 inches high and 36 inches long. You keep it in front of the door to stop drafts from coming into your home.
• Clean the heating ducts and vents throughout your home. This will ensure that there are no blockages in them, thus making sure your furnace doesn’t need to do any extra work to keep your home warm. Another benefit of cleaning the duct is the air in your home will be cleaner. This should be done at least once every five years.
• Clean your rain gutters. Debris in your gutters may clog them, causing water to back up. If the temperature drops to freezing, standing water may freeze causing your gutters to crack, while keeping a block of ice surrounding your home.
• Check the attic, walls and basement for adequate insulation.
• Feel around electrical outlets and switch-plates for cold air, add insulation where necessary.
• Consider replacing windows with energy efficient double-paned windows.
• Disconnect hoses from outside faucets and cover hose bibs with insulated covers.

Source for this article: http://www.burgessinspection.com