Now that you’ve bought a new house, it’s up to you to make sure that you take care of it. This includes making sure that it’s safe and secure against things like burglary, vandalism and impacts from weather. If you live in a region that experiences very cold weather, here are some things you should know about prepping your house in advance.
Watching Your Water
Burst water pipes are some of the most common house issues when it gets really cold. When temperatures dip below freezing, it’s important to wrap outdoor pipes, drain lines and know how to shut off the water. Familiarize yourself with the layout of pipes in your home. If some are in exterior walls, be sure to let your faucets drip to prevent freezing. Open up cabinets in your kitchens and bathrooms to allow heated air to reach pipes.
Preparing for Power Loss
Winter storms can cause blackouts in your home. A lack of electricity may prevent operation of furnaces, fireplaces or space heaters in your house. Several hours with no heat can make your residence dangerously cold. It’s good to have batteries, candles, flashlights and lighters. Consult a professional Generac generator installer Milford NJ to explore options for power backup for your place.
Keeping Out the Cold
Small holes and cracks in your property can make the difference when it comes to staying warm. Check for leaks around windows, doors and small holes where wires enter your home. Caulking, weather stripping and spray foam insulation can help keep out the cold.
Being a responsible homeowner means staying on top of its upkeep. One of the important parts of home maintenance is making sure that it’s prepared for weather changes, especially the cold season. Don’t wait until temperatures drop to get started. There’s no time like the present.