Extremely cold temperatures are not only rough on you, they’re also rough on your home. We’re going to explore some expert tips that can help you to protect your house when winter hits. Freezing weather, ice, and snow don’t have to be the bane of your existence.

Pipes

When it comes to frozen pipes, there’s a lot that you can do in terms of prevention. Try to disconnect and drain your garden hoses, and be sure to cover outside faucets using insulating foam covers. When it is seriously cold, it’s smart to even turn off water to outside faucets, and open those valves on the faucets so that they can be allowed to drain.

Sprinklers

Having trouble with frozen sprinklers? Be sure to turn them off and then blow compressed air through the lines so that they can drain, as well. There are also tons of foundation vents under your house, and these can be closed or covered to prevent the pipes from freezing. In the winter, it’s also a smart idea to keep your garage doors closed. Exposed pipes under your home, both hot and cold, should always be covered with foam pipe insulation.

Furnace

Do you want to know how to keep your house warm when the temperatures drop? Make sure to have your furnace inspected before the cold weather strikes. You want to look for heat exchanger cracks, and replace the clean air filter when you can. While you’re at it, inspect your thermostat to make sure that it’s working properly.

Fireplace

How’s your fireplace looking? Regular inspection of it is essential, as well as checking your chimney. These should also be cleaned annually, and definitely not during the winter. When the cold weather strikes, it’s a smart move to keep your drapes and blinds closed, except for sunny days. This will help to insulate the interior of your home. Did you know that storm windows and sheet plastic window insulation can help to keep the interior of your home warm? It’s worth a try.

Exterior

Now, let’s consider the exterior of your home. Keep the gutters and downspouts clean to prevent ice dams from forming. Also, consider spraying an ice repellant solution on the walks and steps before the freezing begins. Another good tip is to check the antifreeze levels in your car ahead of time. Run the engine to circulate the new antifreeze through the engine block.

Winter weather conditions need not do any damage to you, or to your home. With a few key preventative measures, you can coast through the cooler months. When all else fails, just think of Florida, and wish that you lived there.