Bad weather can wreak havoc on your home no matter the season. Additionally, winter weather comes with some dangerous and costly challenges, especially in northern regions. Taking the proper precautions ahead of the winter season can save you money and possibly your life. If winters are nasty in your area, learn how to prepare your home for bad winter storms before it’s too late.
Keep Your House Warm
During the winter, some of the challenges you might face include poorly functioning heating systems and heat escaping from the house through cracks. You can keep your home heated in a few simple ways:
Check the Radiators
Make sure your radiators and heating vents are clear of any obstructions, including furniture and appliances. Especially anything positioned in front of your heat source could block the flow of air.
Assess the Heating System
It is essential to call a technician to come out and assess your current heating system before winter arrives. Additionally, sure to ask for an air duct cleaning, and replace the air filters in your system.
Winterize the Windows
Check to see if the windows in your home are adequately insulated. Use caulk and weather-stripping to seal the cracks around your window frames. If possible, consider investing in storm windows to block harsh winds.
Install Battery-Operated Devices
Summer thunderstorms and heat waves aren’t the only risks for power loss. A heavy snowstorm can bring feet of accumulated snow and thick ice, leaving power lines at risk. It’s best to invest in a few battery-operated devices to stay safe during a blackout in the cold.
Sump Pump
If your home has a basement, melting snow can pose a flood risk if you’re left without power for an extended period. A battery-powered sump pump will kick on automatically to prevent water from leaking into the basement.
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Carbon monoxide is a threat to anyone near fuel-burning appliances in a confined space. Without electricity, carbon monoxide detectors that plug into outlets won’t work. Make sure your detectors have battery backups so that they remain functional.
Invest in Backup Energy
Spending extended periods in the cold without electricity can put your health at risk. Depending on the temperatures, you might start to experience symptoms of hypothermia. One option is to invest in a backup generator. The advantage of owning a generator can outweigh the cost of purchasing one. It will allow you to stay warm and keep your appliances running, eliminating the need to throw food out of the fridge after a few hours without electricity.
Preparing your home for bad winter storms is essential to avoiding dangerous and costly situations. Your home is your best defense against the elements. Try to meet adverse weather with a plan, and stay safe.