Cozy Up To Winterizing Your Home

Fall is officially here and with winter around the corner you’re probably in need of somewhere to start preparing your home (or your elderly loved one’s home) for the inescapable cold months. Your gingerbread hot cocoa isn’t going to cut it! From furnaces to gutters, there’s a lot that goes into this process but lucky for you this ultimate home checklist will put your mind at ease and be in great shape for this holiday season. Winterizing your home can be a difficult task for anyone so it’s a good idea to help any older adults with this checklist.

To make sure you have everything that you need before the cold sets in, Ralph King, DSCC’s Director of Home Maintenance Repair, suggests knocking these tasks off your winter checklist

Clean Your Gutters

It may sound like a spring thing but clogged gutters from wet leaves, twigs, seeds, and icy debris could result in costly repairs—so clean them out! Start in November so you don’t have to worry about slipping on ice or end up with cracked gutters. If you have never performed gutter washing/maintenance, hire a professional handyman with experience to complete the job for you.

Check Your Furnace

The most essential step for a warm winter is preventative maintenance to your natural gas furnace. In addition to an annual inspection from a HVAC pro, as a homeowner you can take measures in your own hands— changing furnace filters monthly (helps save $$ on your energy bill!), vacuuming areas around the furnace, checking the flame appearance, and remove anything stored near the furnace.

Sealing Drafty Windows

Brrrrr…feel that cold? Drafts are no fun and can cause winter heating costs to skyrocket. There are many solutions to solve this problem but the best approach is sealing/caulking around the outside of the window, weather-stripping the inside, and insulate the glass with temporary or permanent coverings. One of the quickest yet effective methods (but maybe not so pretty!) is bubble wrap— Yes, the confined air bubbles are a good insulator and helps resist against the temperature changes. Likewise, crystal clear plastic film window insulating kits are available and enough for 5 to 6 windows, and it’s earth friendly!

Install A Programmable Thermostat

Upgrade your outdated thermostat with a programmable one where you have the option to set your heating system to turn on only during the desired times that you wish for some serious savings. Automating your heat for sure helps those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Even more, look out for a thermostat with a security lock. This way, there is less room for anyone to tamper with the temps!

Safe Snow Removal

Many eager older adults can underestimate the strength and endurance it takes to shovel snow which can lead to a number of health risks. Consider researching qualified snow removal services, ask neighbors for a recommendation, and reach out to your local church for any volunteer possibilities. If you create a plan in advance you can limit the risks. Added bonus—buy melting salt and wear shoes with non-slip soles.

Insulate Your Pipes

Layer Up or Burst! Why not save on your water bill and prevent water damage? Wrap up your pipes in insulation tubes/heat tape and your water heater in a jacket which are available at your local hardware store. Seal leaks with caulk that allow cold air inside near where the pipes are located—even a tiny hole can let a lot of cold air blow in.

Sweep Up The Soot

It’s essential for the health and safety of your family to have your chimney cleaned out to prevent a fire and carbon monoxide before your first fire. Animal nests and creosote buildup (which is highly flammable) in your fireplace can be hazardous and cause respiratory risks. DIY chimney cleaning methods can be dangerous and are rarely effective. Hiring a NFI-professional chimney sweep is the best way to have all of last year’s creosote buildup removed.

We hope your transition into winter goes smoothly. Keep the cold out, the heat in, and your energy bill down. Were our winterizing tips helpful? Let us know, we would love your feedback.

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