Be a Winter Warrior: 15 must-do tasks to ensure a safe winter
Winter is now approaching, and it is important to make sure we are properly prepared.
As the owner of Setting The Stage LLC and North Jersey Home Maintenance Group, it is my job to make sure my client’s homes are ready for the winter months. So, I thought I would pass along some important tips to make sure you prepare your home for the upcoming winter.
Change your home’s filters to Hepa, high-efficiency filters
Have your heating system serviced. I do this in my home every year to ensure my heat runs smoothly and efficiently throughout the winter
Make sure your gutters are cleaned and leaders are not clogged. It will help reduce the chances of ice damming, which will reduce leaks into your home.
Purchase salt for melting any ice on walkways and driveways. I use a pet-friendly product since I have dogs, and many of my neighbors walk their dogs on the sidewalk outside my house.
Place your shovel(s) in a convenient location. I keep several shovels where I might need them
Put brush/ ice scraper in car. I keep a long brush on a pole outside my front door so I can clean the snow off my car without much effort.
Stock up on all essentials. Especially since they are expecting more shortages in the stores this winter.
Replace batteries in flashlights and put in locations easy to get to. Just a good thing to do in case the electricity goes out.
Check windows and doors for drafts. Install weather stripping where needed to rid of drafts, reduce heating bills
Utilize your curtains- Some curtains can actually act as insulation and help prevent heat from escaping your home through your windows, so swap out thin ones for thicker ones. You should also open the curtains when the sun is shining on that side of your home so you get a little natural warmth that way.
Have the telephone number for the person removing snow from your walkways and driveway in several handy locations.
Make sure your electronic devices are working properly or have them serviced.
Turn the water off to outdoor spigots and disconnect the hoses
Have your dryer vent cleaned from the dryer to your exterior outlet, make sure there is a cover on the outside of the house so animals cannot get in to stay warm.
Heated mats- this has saved me for the past five years. Having had two spinal surgeries, I am unable to shovel snow. I have been using heated mats on my front and rear steps and walkways. Two years ago, I added a remote control for the mats, so now I do not have to go outside in the cold to turn them on. I have installed them at clients’ homes, and they love having these mats.
If you have any questions or concerns about these items, please feel free to call me at 201-638-4410 or email me at linda.settingthestage@gmail.com.
We are happy to assist you with any of these items if you need help.