Winter can be erratic, with frigid temperatures and sporadic snowfall. Here are professional advice on winter-proofing your home to help you prepare. Early planning can lower overall expenses, save energy, and preserve your house. 

Keep pipelines safe and insulated

Your home is vulnerable to frozen pipes. This is especially true when the temperature falls below freezing. 

Low temperatures can cause your pipes to explode. According to a real estate company in Raleigh, NC, this is one of the most frequent causes of wintertime property damage. So, preventing pipes from freezing is essential. 

Thankfully, you can insulate your pipes to prevent this. Search for pipes that might be in contact with frigid temperatures and insulate them. What if it’s already winter and you didn’t do that? In that case, you can leave faucets dripping on cold nights. This will prevent pressure buildup.

Find and seal drafts

Energy Star estimates that air leaks cause between 25-40% of the energy used to warm and cool your house. It may also lessen the effectiveness of the other energy-saving measures. 

In other words, drafts can cause your home’s energy expenses to rise. Whether you have Energy Star windows, doors, and high-quality insulation doesn’t matter. Thankfully, finding and sealing drafts is the simple remedy.

Start by identifying trouble spots in your house. Windows, doors, crawl spaces, and attic spaces are usually the culprits. Seal the spaces around them using caulk or weather stripping. This prevents air from escaping or entering. 

Light switches and outlets are potential concealed places for air leaks. So, wrap them with foam insulation. Put door sweeps or draft guards on the bottom of your external doors to keep dirt and air out. 

Keep your HVAC system in good working order

Routine maintenance is important for the effectiveness of your HVAC system. It also ensures pleasant indoor temperatures. You should have a professional inspect your HVAC system to ensure optimal performance every season. 

Make any necessary repairs or replacements before the winter season officially arrives. For instance, check and replace air filters before winter starts. Verify that each room’s vents are clear and capable of moving the most air feasible. 

Consider replacing your thermostat with a programmable system that optimizes your house. It can help you save up to 10% on your annual utility expenses.

Prepare your home’s exterior

Spend some time winterizing your home’s exterior as well. Start by unplugging and storing your hoses to prevent water from freezing and damaging spigots. Also, clear your foundation of any debris, such as leaves or mulch. 

Additionally, look for any damage to your roof that might have happened throughout the summer. Repair any missing or loose shingles. This will prevent leaks due to ice or snow accumulation throughout the winter. Additionally, inspect the insulation in your attic. This will save energy expenses by preventing heat loss via your roof.

Conclusion 

Preventive measures are key to keeping your house safe, effective, and warm during the winter. A little effort now can provide you with peace of mind throughout the season and prevent expensive repairs.