Dear Homeowner,
As winter approaches, it is essential to take a few preventive steps to winterize your home. Proper winterization can save you money on energy bills, prevent potential damage to your property, and ensure your family stays warm and comfortable throughout the cold months. Additionally, many home warranties require specific maintenance and care to remain valid. Here are some of the best ways to winterize your home while also protecting your warranty:
- Inspect and Clean Your Heating System
Ensure your heating system is in top condition before the cold sets in. Change air filters, clean vents, and have your furnace or heating system professionally inspected. Many home warranties require regular maintenance of HVAC systems, and neglecting this could void your coverage. Check your warranty guidelines to make sure you’re adhering to any required service schedules. - Seal Drafts and Insulate Windows and Doors
Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any leaks, which will help keep the cold air out and the warm air in. - Check the Roof and Gutters
Clean your gutters to ensure proper drainage, preventing ice dams that can cause water to back up into your home. Some warranties on roofing materials may require regular inspections and maintenance, so it’s essential to document any issues and address them promptly. - Prepare Your Exterior
Trim overhanging branches that could cause damage during snow or ice storms. Check outdoor faucets and cover them with insulating foam covers to prevent freezing. Some warranties on exterior appliances or systems may require regular maintenance of outdoor features, so be sure to review any terms related to this. - Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Cold weather increases the use of heating systems and fireplaces, making it essential to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functional. Replace batteries and test alarms regularly. If your home warranty includes coverage for electrical systems or smoke detectors, be sure to follow the maintenance guidelines outlined in the warranty to keep your coverage intact. - Stock Emergency Supplies
Winter storms can lead to power outages. It’s wise to have emergency supplies on hand, including flashlights, batteries, bottled water, canned goods, blankets, and a first aid kit. For certain warranty types, such as appliance warranties, check that you’re following the specific maintenance instructions to keep your coverage active. - Reduce Condensation on Windows
Condensation on windows in winter can be a common problem, most often caused by the temperature difference between the warm, moist air inside your home and the cold glass on the outside of the window. Here are some effective strategies to reduce or prevent condensation:
• Open window coverings daily to inspect for condensation, and mop up moisture if present. • Always use the exhaust fan in your kitchen, bathroom and laundry room during and for a period of time
• Running a dehumidifier may be beneficial if the humidity in your home is too high. Typically in the winter this should be between 30-40%, lower when it is extremely cold, however this can vary from home to home.
• It is recommended to run your HRV and/or your furnace fan continuously to circulate the air in your home.
Pacific Home Warranty offers a great guide for home maintenance, you can find it HERE to offer further guidance. By taking these steps, you can avoid common winter-related issues, protect your warranty, and ensure that your home remains safe, energy-efficient, and comfortable throughout the season. If you have any questions or need assistance with winterizing your home or maintaining your warranties, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Wishing you a warm and safe winter season!
Sincerely,
McKinley Beach Team