Winterizing Your Home - Tips to Save Energy and Money

Here in North Texas we are not immune to cold & freezing temperatures, so take a minute and follow these quick and easy tips to winterizing your home. As my friends have described, disaster can happen especially after a freezing temperature:

I hope everyone made it safe through the winter storm. I had a faucet freeze that is leaking now after the thaw and a fallen tree branch to get cleared. Please stay warm and safe.

To begin with, here are a list of winter weather precautions to be taken:

• Set the heater on at least 65 degrees and leave it on until threat of freeze is over
• Leave all hot and cold interior faucets dripping
• Leave cabinet doors under any sink open so warm air can circulate around pipes
• Please do not walk outside unless you are sure there is no ice on the ground
• Watch for falling ice and snow from the roof tops
• Do not use dishwashers, washing machines etc. until you are certain the water and drain lines are thawed

 

Look up: 

Check out your roof to make sure it is in good shape. Not only can lose or missing shingles allow heat to escape, but they can also give water a path into your home to cause damage. Similarly, check to make sure your gutters are clear of debris. If water can’t flow freely away from your home, it may freeze and flow into your home as it thaws.

 

Service your Water Heater: 

Our water here in North Texas is naturally hard. This means that over time, particles and sediment can collect in your water heater, making it less efficient. Have your water heater drained in order to clear out the build-up. Your heater will regain efficiency, have a longer life and save you time and money.

Wrap Exposed Water Pipes: 

If water pipes run through an attic, garage, or crawlspace, be sure to insulate them with foam or fiberglass insulation. Insulated spigot covers likewise protect outside faucets from potential freeze once hoses are disconnected.

In the event of freezing temperatures, make sure you keep your sprinkler systems turned OFF to avoid hazardous conditions on roads and sidewalks.

Keep it Clean! 

Regularly replacing your filters will help protect your furnace and the air quality of your home. But it is a good idea to have a professional out to clean and inspect your furnace at the start of the season to ensure it is running properly.

Keep it Moving: 

We all know that hot air rises, so set your ceiling fans to turn clockwise and drag that warm air down from the heights, and back to your feet.

Stay warm, and remember, you’ll be back in those flip flops before you know it!