Home Tips

Winter Maintenance

• Check your outlets and all electrical holiday decorations for potential fire hazards such as frayed wires or loose connections. Do not overload the outlet, extension cords or surge protectors.
• Check and clean your heating system to make sure it is in good working condition for the winter months. This is generally a job best performed by a professional.
• Close off and lower the temperature in unneeded rooms. Make sure that there is sufficient heat to prevent the freezing of water pipes.
• Insulate pipes that pass through unheated areas. Your home's crawl space and attic are two such places.
• Clean and/or replace your furnace filter before the heating season begins.
• Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct and space under the dryer. This prevents lint from accumulating and decreases the risk of fire.
• Protect your roof against heavy snow and ice loads. Keep gutters clean and roof drains opened.
• Inspect washing machine hoses periodically and replace hoses that show signs of leaking.
• Inspect and clean faucet aerators and shower heads.
• Inspect dishwasher for leaks.
• Clean kitchen exhaust fan filters.
• Grind ice cubes in disposer.
• Check and replace (if needed) heating system air filter.
• Maintain drains with baking soda or hot water, not with chemical drain openers.
• Pour water down unused drains.
• Inspect visible foundation areas, pipes, vents and ducts.
• Vacuum smoke alarms.
• Vacuum heating registers, vents, ducts, radiators.
• Inspect fireplace flues for "glassy" creosote buildup and have flues cleaned regularly.
• Inspect fireplace firebrick and mortar for cracks and deterioration, patch small cracks, but large ones require professional repair.