Kankakee Times

As winter weather settles in Illinois, it is crucial for residents to take necessary precautions to protect their homes from the harsh conditions. To help you prepare for the season, here are some expert tips and advice:

One of the primary concerns during winter is the risk of frozen and burst pipes. To prevent this, homeowners should pay special attention to their basements, as over one-third of all burst pipes occur in this area. Insulating indoor pipes and ensuring proper heat circulation can significantly reduce the chances of pipe damage.

Insulating the attic or crawl space is another vital step in winter preparedness. By adding insulation, homeowners can prevent heat loss and keep their homes warm and energy-efficient.

Regular maintenance of the furnace and chimney is essential to ensure optimal performance during the winter months. Annual inspections should be a standard practice to identify any potential issues and address them promptly.

To protect against icy drafts, it is recommended to remove and store all window screens. Installing glass storm windows creates an insulating layer of air between the window and the cold weather, helping to keep the interior warm.

Snowfall can cause damage to roofs, particularly if there are loose shingles. Homeowners should inspect their roofs for any loose or damaged shingles and repair them before the winter sets in. This will prevent water leaks and potential structural damage.

Gutters play a crucial role in diverting water away from the house. Therefore, it is important to clean and inspect gutters before winter to ensure proper drainage and prevent ice dams from forming.

Outdoor water sources, such as garden hoses, should be secured before the first frost. Draining the hoses and disconnecting them from the spigot will prevent freezing and potential damage.

Sealing any gaps around windows and doors is an effective way to keep the cold air out and maintain a warm interior. Re-caulking these areas will help to create a tight seal and improve energy efficiency.

Reversing the direction of ceiling fans is a simple yet effective tip to circulate warm air downwards. This can help to distribute heat more evenly throughout the room and reduce heating costs.

For those with gas-powered engines, such as lawnmowers, it is important to drain the fuel before winter. This prevents fuel from deteriorating and causing damage to the engine.

Checking insurance coverage is another crucial step in winter preparedness. Ensuring that your policy adequately covers potential winter-related damages can help avoid any unwanted surprises.

In extremely cold climates, door locks freezing can be a common issue. To prevent this, spraying a powdered-graphite lubricant in each lock can provide a protective barrier and keep them functioning properly.

Homeowners who rely on snow blowers should check their equipment to ensure it is in proper working condition before the first snowfall. This will prevent any last-minute issues and ensure efficient snow removal.

Covering the water heater with an insulation blanket is a recommended practice to conserve energy and prevent heat loss. This simple step can help reduce heating costs and ensure hot water availability throughout the winter.

Lastly, it is important to remember the importance of smoke detectors. Changing the batteries and testing smoke detectors regularly is crucial for home safety, especially during the winter when heating systems are in full use.

By following these expert tips and advice, Illinois residents can adequately prepare their homes for the winter season, ensuring a safe and comfortable living environment. Stay warm and stay prepared!

To learn more, click on this link: https://rephaas.com/2023/12/06/winter-preparedness/