Inspect your roof: Look for loose or missing shingles and make repairs if necessary. This will help prevent leaks from the melting snow. For safety, hire a professional to check the condition. Also, be on the look out for tree limbs that need to be trimmed to prevent damage to your home during a winter storm.
Clean gutters and downspouts: If you haven't already, clear gutters and downspouts so the melted snow will drain properly. Direct your downspouts away from your homes foundation to prevent basement leaks and flooding.
Heating system: If you haven't already, hire a licensed professional to have your heating system serviced to make sure it's working properly, and have your filter changed.
Hot water tank: Flush hot water tank and wrap with insulating blanket to save energy and money. Drain sediment from water heater.
Fireplace: Have your fireplace inspected and cleaned by a chimney sweep. This should be done every year, especially if you use it regularly.
Prevent Pipes from freezing: Insulate pipes nears windows, doors and areas of the home that are not heated. Disconnect garden hose from the outside faucet. Drain the water from the house and shut off water valves. Do not set the heat lower than 55 degrees.
Water pressure: Check for high water pressure to protect pipes, connections and appliances.
Fireplace: Have your fireplace inspected and cleaned by a chimney sweep. This should be done every year, especially if you use it regularly.
Ceiling fan: If you use your ceiling fan in the cooler months, remember to change the direction of the fan to create an upward draft.
Check home detectors: Make sure all of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
We hope these tips are helpful to keep your home safe and warm during these cold, winter days ahead. We also want to wish you and your families a blessed holiday season from all of us at Wiemann Home Inspection.
