Property Management Nation

The onset of Autumn means falling temperatures and is the perfect time to start getting your home ready for freezing winter weather.  Keep this checklist handy to aid you in this process.

Start Inside the House:

Heating Systems

• Inspect your furnace and clean the ducts- if need be call a HVAC professional to do this
• Test by setting your thermostat to 80 and check to make sure warm air starts blowing out
• Replace air and furnace filters monthly
• If using oil or propane, top off the fuel storage tank
• Clear all heat vents and remove flammable material from area around furnace
• If you do not have a programmable thermostat consider switching to one to save on heat costs

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Test them to make sure they work properly
• Stock up on batteries and get in the habit of changing them when Daylight Savings Time changes
• If your fire extinguishers are over 10 years old, buy new ones

Fireplace

• Check for bird nests and other debris
• Put a screen or cap on the top to keep out birds and rodents
• Inspect the damper to make sure it opens and closed properly
• Ensure that there are no leaks or damage to the mortar between the bricks and the tuckpoints
• If necessary call a chimney sweep to clean out creosote and soot
• EIther buy or chop firewood and store it in a clean, dry place away from the exterior of your home

Continue to the Exterior of the House

Doors, Windows and Exterior

• Use weather-stripping around doors to keep out cold air
• Caulk windows and replace cracked glass
• Switch out your summer screens to glass replacements and if you have storm windows- install them
• Inspect the exterior of your house for cracks or crevices and seal all possible entry points around pipes
• If you have a basement cover your window wells with plastic shields

Roof, Gutters and Downspouts

• Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles are replace them
• Install leaf guards on your gutters and/or extensions on your downspouts to direct water farther from home
• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams or buildup
• Add extra insulation to your attic if you have one to prevent warm air from seeping to the roof and causing ice dams

Plumbing

• Insulate exterior pipes
• Drain garden hoses, fountains and sprinkler systems by blowing compressed air through them to purge the water
• Turn off outside water
• Locate your water main in the event of a shutoff
• If you have AC, drain the pipes and shut off the water shut off valve if there is one
• When taking a vacation in the winter do not turn off your heat altogether, rather set it at 55 degrees

Foundation

• Remove all debris and vegetation from around your foundation
• Inspect your sill plates fro dry rot and pest infestation
• Secure the entrance(s) to your crawl space
• Make sure all entry points are sealed to prevent small animals from crawling under your house

Landscape

• Trim all branches and trees that are too close to the house or electric wires
• Seal wood decks, brick patios and driveways
• Move all plants sensitive to weather inside or to a sheltered area
• Prune trees that need it to prevent injury in heavy snow or ice
• Lift all bulbs that need protection from freezing and plant spring bulbs
• For more information on winterizing your garden go to about.com

Weather- specific Equipment

• Drain gas from lawn mowers, weed wackers, etc.
• Replace worn snow shovels and rakes
• Tune up and service snow blowers
• Clean and store your summer gardening equipment in a dry place
• Stock up on sand and/or ice melt
• Sharpen ice chippers if necessary

This checklist should help you to prepare your home against the winter elements.  It is also a good idea to have an emergency kit in the event of a power outage or other disaster.  This kit should include matches, indoor candles, lighters, bottled water, non-perishable food items (including pet food), a first aid kit, and blankets.  Also prepare an evacuation plan and keep your utility company’s information near the phone.