Just because it is winter doesn’t mean home maintenance stops. Here is a list of items that should be considered during the winter.
- Before it gets too cold out, be sure weather stripping around exterior doors is sealing properly. Leaks around door openings can lead to higher energy consumption.
- Make sure any electrical holiday decorations are functioning correctly and all extension cords are intact and not damaged.
- Replace any snow shovels that may be damaged or worn out.
- Test all GFCI receptacles in the home.
- If it is safe to do so, clean the dryer vent ducting.
- Clean the top of gas fireplaces before using in the winter. There will be dust sitting there. Household dust is flammable, and we want to keep fire contained to the inside of the fireplace.
- Reverse the directions of any ceiling fans in the house so they are moving air up to the ceiling. This will blend the warmer air at the ceiling with the lower lying cooler air better, lowering energy costs.
- Keep sidewalks free and clear of snow and ice. Remember that in Colorado most municipalities require snow to be removed from city walkways in front of your home within 24 hours of the completion of a winter storm. The city might own it, but it is up to you to maintain it.
- If your home has a fire hydrant in the front or side yard, be sure to keep snow cleared away from it for at least 3 feet in any direction. Fire fighters aren’t going to have time to do that in the event of an emergency and they will rely on you for that assistance.
- Check your water heater for any leaks.
