A checklist for a peaceful season.
Minnesota winters can be brutal, but a well-prepared home can weather the storm. Here’s a checklist to help you winterize your home and ensure cozy comfort all season long:
Outdoor Preparation
- Drain outdoor faucets: Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain them thoroughly to prevent pipe bursts.
- Garden hose: Drain and roll up garden hoses and disconnect hose sprayers or nozzles to prolong their life.
- Clean gutters: Remove leaves and debris to avoid ice dams that can damage your roof.
- Trim trees & shrubs: Prune branches that could damage your home or power lines during winter storms.
- Seal cracks & gaps: Caulk and weatherstrip around windows, doors, and foundation to prevent drafts.
- Blow out irrigation system: Prevent damage to your irrigation system by blowing out any remaining water.
- Check vent openings: Ensure dryer vents, furnace vents and intakes, and other vents are clear of obstructions to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Indoor Maintenance
- Check your heating, ventilation, & air conditioning systems (HVAC): Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up to ensure optimal performance.
- Clean or replace furnace filters: Regular filter changes improve air quality and system efficiency.
- HRV maintenance: If your home has an HRV (heat recovery ventilator), now is a good time to remove, wash, and/or replace the air filters.
- Humidifier: Replace your air humidifier water pad with a new one, check water flow, and ensure the drain hose is free of obstructions, mold, or scale buildup.
- Reverse ceiling fans: Switch the direction of your ceiling fans clockwise to push warm air downward.
- Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure they work correctly to protect your family. Also, change the batteries in these and your flashlights.
- Check fire extinguishers: Ensure the pressure gauge is in the green zone, indicating it’s properly charged. Visually inspect the extinguisher for any damage, dents, or corrosion. Check the pin and tamper seal to make sure they’re intact. Lastly, verify the expiration date on the label. If the extinguisher is outdated or damaged, replace it immediately.
- Consider a programmable thermostat: Optimize your heating schedule to save energy and money.
Be prepared for Winter
For shovels, inspect the handle for cracks or weaknesses. Replace any broken or worn-out parts. Apply a coat of sealant to metal shovels to prevent rust. By taking these steps, you’ll be ready to tackle winter’s challenges easily. You can also safeguard your home and enjoy a peaceful winter season in Minnesota.