With the arrival of inclement weather fully prepared to protect your home and belongings from the potential impacts of freezing temperatures. Below are a few simple but important steps to take to help prevent damage and ensure a comfortable and safe environment for you and your family during this cold weather.
Winter Preparation Tips:
- Open Cabinet Doors:
- Keep the doors to your kitchen sink cabinet and bathroom vanity cabinet(s) open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. This will help prevent pipes from freezing.
- Allow a Steady Stream of Water:
- Leave a small, steady stream of water running from your kitchen and bathroom faucets. This will help prevent the water in the pipes from freezing.
- Maintain a Consistent Temperature:
- Keep thermostats set to a minimum of 65°F, especially during the night and morning hours. Even if you are away or sleeping, it’s important to keep your home at this temperature to prevent freezing in the plumbing system.
- Check Weatherstripping:
- Inspect doors and windows for drafts and ensure weatherstripping is intact to keep cold air out and warm air in.
- Protect Outdoor Faucets:
- If you haven’t already, make sure to disconnect any outdoor hoses, and consider covering outdoor faucets with insulated covers to prevent freezing.
- Insulate Exposed Pipes:
- Add pipe insulation to any exposed water pipes, particularly in unheated areas such as basements, attics, garages, or crawlspaces.
- Prepare for Power Outages:
- Ensure that your home’s emergency preparedness kit is stocked with essentials like blankets, bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and any necessary medications.
- Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:
- Test and change batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to keep your home safe in case of an emergency.
By taking these simple precautions, you can help protect your home from the harsh conditions and prevent unnecessary damage.
Stay warm and safe!