Is your home ready for unexpected winter weather? Even here in central Arizona, winterizing helps keep your home warm, ensures safety, and reduces your energy bills. Senior Helpers shares a checklist of tasks you should tend to so you can protect your home from unforeseen cold snaps.
1. Insulation Checks
Start by checking your home's insulation to prevent cold air from seeping in. Inspect windows and doors for drafts. Place your hand around the edges to feel for any cold air. If you detect drafts, add weather stripping and caulking to seal gaps.
Another effective way to keep your home warm is by installing thermal curtains. They offer an extra layer of insulation against the cold and are available in various styles.
2. Heating System Maintenance
Keep your heating system in good working condition. Schedule a professional HVAC inspection to ensure everything is working as it should. Regular maintenance will help prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Clean or replace filters to maintain efficient airflow and to improve air quality inside your home. It's also a good time to test thermostats and smoke detectors to make sure they're functioning properly.
3. Pest Control
When it gets cold here in the Southwest, rodents can try to find their way inside. This is why winter is when the risk of contracting hantavirus increases. Consider having a pest control professional check that all points of entry are appropriately blocked off and traps are set to remove existing pests.
4. Pipe Protection
Another critical area to cover is pipe protection to prevent the rare but possible chance of freezing. Insulate any pipes that are exposed in the basement, attic, or crawl spaces. Draining outdoor faucets and disconnecting garden hoses can prevent any water inside them from freezing and causing damage.
During extreme cold, keep a trickle of water flowing through faucets to reduce the risk of frozen pipes. Know where your water shutoff valve is, and have an appropriate wrench to operate it.
5. Emergency Supplies
Stock up on essential food and water supplies, selecting meals that you can easily prepare if the power is off. Keep a manual can opener on hand if you normally use an electric one.
Make sure you have enough medications to last through potentially prolonged indoor stays. Assemble a first-aid kit and keep it readily available. Have flashlights and extra batteries on hand in case of power outages.
6. Winter Emergency Plan
Having a solid emergency plan in place provides peace of mind. Establish a communication plan with family members so everyone knows how to stay in touch during an emergency. Identify safe, warm places you can go to if your home becomes too cold. Create a list of emergency contacts, including family, friends, and local services, and keep it accessible.
Stay Cozy This Winter With Senior Helpers
Don't be caught off guard by a sudden dip in winter temperatures! Take action by following these steps and getting started on winter preparations.
Do you need assistance with living independently at home? From light housework to meal preparation in the Scottsdale, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, and Carefree areas, Senior Helpers Scottsdale is here for you. Contact us today for personalized support.