As the weather changes, the need for winterizing homes returns to the Pacific Northwest, especially in Klamath County. Taking steps now can help ensure your home stays protected from the cold, whether you’re living there or leaving it vacant for the season.
Your Home Winter Prep Checklist:
Before winter fully settles in, be sure to check these essential systems in your home. A little maintenance now can extend the life of your home’s systems, create a healthier environment for you and your family, and improve energy efficiency—all while helping to reduce your winter utility costs.
1. Seal and Insulate
- Weatherstripping and Caulking: Inspect doors and windows for any drafts and add weatherstripping or caulking as needed. This helps prevent heat loss and keeps energy bills down.
- Attic Insulation: Make sure your attic has sufficient insulation. Proper insulation keeps warm air in and cold air out.
- Pipe Insulation: Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas, to prevent freezing. Pipe sleeves or heat tape are easy options.
2. Roof Maintenance
- Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Remove any leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and water buildup. Make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
- Inspect for Damage: Check for any loose or missing shingles, and make necessary repairs to prevent leaks and water damage.
- Attic Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in the attic to reduce the risk of ice dams and keep your roof in good condition.
3. Heating System Checkup
- Service Your Furnace: Have your heating system inspected and serviced by a professional to ensure it’s running efficiently.
- Replace Filters: Change furnace filters regularly to maintain good airflow and efficiency.
- Chimney and Fireplace: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney cleaned and inspected to reduce the risk of creosote buildup.
4. Exterior Preparations
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Remove dead or hanging branches near your house to prevent storm damage from heavy snow or wind.
- Drain and Store Hoses: Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and store them inside. Shut off and drain outdoor faucets if possible.
- Check Foundation for Cracks: Fill any cracks in the foundation to prevent water intrusion, which can freeze and expand, causing further damage.
5. Windows and Doors
- Install Storm Windows: If you have storm windows, install them for an extra layer of insulation.
- Use Heavy Drapes: Keep heat in by using thick, insulated drapes on windows at night. This can add a layer of warmth and keep drafts at bay.
6. Safety Equipment Check
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test and replace batteries to ensure they’re working properly. Carbon monoxide risks can increase in winter as heating systems are in constant use.
- Emergency Kit: Prepare a winter emergency kit with essentials like blankets, a flashlight, batteries, and bottled water in case of a power outage.
7. Outdoor Equipment Prep
- Snow Removal Gear: Ensure snow shovels and snow blowers are accessible and in good condition. Stock up on ice melt or sand for walkways.
- Winterize Your Lawn Mower: Drain the fuel and store it properly, or add a fuel stabilizer if you’ll be keeping fuel in it over the winter.
Real Estate Agents have a list of contractors and services that can help you get your home ready for winter. If you aren’t going to be at the home for the winter, it is smart to winterize properly and avoid costly damages to your home while you are gone. Here is a list of the things you can do to winterize your vacant home.
Winter Prep Checklist for Vacant Homes
- Shut Off the Water Supply
- Prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Drain pipes by opening all faucets and flushing toilets.
- Drain Water Heater and Appliances
- Drain the water heater and disconnect any water lines to appliances, like washing machines, to avoid potential leaks.
- Maintain a Low Heat Setting
- Set the thermostat to at least 55°F to prevent the home from getting too cold, which helps protect against freezing pipes.
- Add Anti-Freeze to Drains
- Pour non-toxic antifreeze into drains, toilets, and any water traps to prevent freezing in the pipes.
- Unplug Electronics
- Disconnect and unplug all appliances and electronics to save energy and reduce the risk of electrical fires.
- Seal Windows and Doors
- Check for drafts and seal windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulking to help keep the property insulated and prevent moisture buildup.
- Arrange for Snow Removal
- Schedule regular snow removal for driveways and walkways. This helps maintain curb appeal and deters any suspicion that the property is vacant.
- Secure the Home
- Ensure all doors and windows are locked, and consider using a security system or cameras to monitor the property while it’s unoccupied.
- Check Roof and Gutters
- Clear gutters to avoid ice dams, and inspect the roof for loose shingles to prevent leaks and water damage from snow buildup.
- Visit or Have a Neighbor Check Regularly
- Try and make arrangedments for someone to check the home frequently and make sure there aren’t any issues.
Preparing your home for winter, whether it’s vacant or occupied, is vital to protecting it from cold-weather damage and ensure it stays in top shape for the season ahead. Taking proactive steps now can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your property safe and secure through the winter months.
If you need assistance with any winterization tasks, our real estate brokers have a comprehensive list of trusted local contractors and service providers who can handle everything from insulation and roof maintenance to plumbing and heating. Contact us today to get connected with the right professionals and ensure your home is winter-ready, no matter the season! Coldwell Banker Holman Premier Realty (541) 884 -1343