Baby, It is COLD Outside! How Do I protect my HOME?

Baby, It is COLD Outside! How Do I protect my HOME?

  • Cynthia Pensiero-DeFazio
  • 01/19/24

Protecting your home in freezing temperatures is crucial to prevent damage and ensure the safety and comfort of your household. Here are some tips:

  1. Insulate Pipes:

    • Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
    • Use pipe insulation or wrap pipes with towels or other insulating materials.
  2. Keep Faucets Dripping:

    • Allow faucets to drip slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent them from freezing.
  3. Seal Drafts:

    • Seal gaps and drafts around windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering your home.
    • Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any cracks or openings.
  4. Maintain Heating Systems:

    • Have your heating system inspected and serviced regularly to ensure it functions efficiently.
    • Replace filters in your furnace and clean vents to improve airflow.
  5. Protect Outdoor Faucets:

    • Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses.
    • Install insulated faucet covers on outdoor spigots.
  6. Winterize Outdoor Equipment:

    • Store outdoor furniture and equipment in a sheltered area or cover them to protect against winter weather.
  7. Keep the Thermostat Consistent:

    • Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, even when you're away, to prevent drastic temperature drops.
  8. Open Cabinet Doors:

    • Leave cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
  9. Use Space Heaters Safely:

    • If using space heaters, follow safety guidelines and keep them away from flammable materials.
  10. Insulate Attic and Walls:

    • Ensure that your attic and walls are adequately insulated to retain heat in your home.
  11. Emergency Kit:

    • Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food in case of power outages.
  12. Roof Maintenance:

    • Remove snow from your roof to prevent ice dams, which can lead to water damage.
  13. Monitor Your Home:

    • Regularly check for signs of issues, such as leaks or drafts, and address them promptly.
  14. Know Shut-off Locations:

    • Know the location of the main water shut-off valve and how to turn off water to your home in case of a pipe burst.

By taking these precautions, you can help protect your home from the harsh effects of freezing temperatures.

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