The best time to get ready for the winter is in the fall, before the the cold weather, snow and ice arrives! Home winterizing can be easy when you take it step-by-step and start early enough. Part one of this three part blog will get you well on your way!

 

Heating System

You’ll want to make sure you have heat for when you need it!

Test Run- Turn the thermostat on to ‘heat mode’ and listen for the furnace to start. Warm air should start blowing within a few minutes.

• Seasonal Maintenance- Have your  furnace checked by a service technician or if you know how you can do this  yourself.
• Replace the air filter.
• Fuel- If using a propane or oil  furnace top-off the fuel storage tank.
• Heating Vents- Ensure vents are  clear so air can flow.
• Check for Carbon Monoxide  Leaks- Install a test badge or battery operated alarm.

 

Air Conditioning

Often people forget about caring for the condensing unit (the portion that sits outside) as winter approaches.

• Clean Condensing Unit of  Debris- Using a hose set to high pressure, clean the fan blades and condensing  coils.
• Cover Condensing Unit- Although  designed for outdoor use, covering the unit with an air conditioner cover will  extend the life and efficiency performance of the unit.
• Window Air Conditioners- Remove  and store them for winter. If removal is not possible then close the vents and  cover the unit with an air conditioner cover.

 

Roof

Hire someone to inspect your roof if you are not comfortable safely doing so yourself; if you do inspect it yourself be sure to wear solidly fastened shoes with non-skid soles.

Check for missing or damaged shingles and have them replaced.  Check flashings around chimneys and other roof projections which can be a source for leaks.

Clean out gutters and downspouts. Wet leaves left over winter can add weight and volume which increases risk of damage when frozen.

 

That’s all for now but be sure to check back for part two on Winterizing Your Home which will include tips on winterizing your fireplace/chimney, plumbing and insulation! In Part Three the following week you can learn about winterizing your doors/windows, sprinkler systems, landscape and amenities.

Your home is your castle and investing some extra time and engery in it, you know you have the pick of the crop when the time comes to sell.

 

www.liveinstalbert.com

 

Anna Bayne
Associate | REALTOR®
Your St. Albert/North Edmonton  Area Specialist!

KENNEDY Real Estate
Your Edmonton REALTOR® | Edmonton Home Stager
Call us today…780-485-3010 and GET SOLD!