Helpful winter reminders, these simple tips will keep you warm and lower your energy costs!
Check all window locks, being sure they are locked shut.
Keep the Humidifier properly set.
Set and use your setback thermostat.
Are your Fireplace dampers and outside air draws closed when not in use?
Are your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors working properly?
Be sure all doors close tightly against its weather-stripping and the door sill is adjusted properly.
Melting snow and road salt in the garage can erode the concrete floor.
Keep your garage door closed to help keep the inside of the home warmer.
Keep snow from building up around and under all exterior doors.
Did you disconnect all exterior hoses from the hose bib?
Ice dams and their potential danger can pose real threats to both home and safety. Check the roof and gutters for this dangerous ice formation.
BEFORE YOU GO ON VACATION! Whether winter or summer you should do the following to be sure you prevent accidental water damage. TURN OFF THE WATER AT THE WELL TANK INLET OR JUST BEFORE THE WATER METER. OPEN ALL FAUCET VALVES TO RELIEVE PRESSURE AND DRAIN DOWN THE SYSTEM. This will save your home in the event of mechanical failure of your heating system and frozen water pipes bursting. Winter or summer the joints and fittings can develop leaks and burst. Water can be more damaging than Fire. Lower your thermostat to conserve energy (raise the A/C setting or turn off the unit), as well as lowering or completely shutting down the water heaters. Why waste energy while you are away. Drop a stick cut to the proper length into your sliding door track to prevent entry and use your deadbolts. Arrange to have someone check your home periodically while you are away particularly if a power failure does occur to be sure your home is safe.
Following these simple steps will assure your home is ready for any failure which may occur. Only you can be held responsible for system failures if you do not perform maintenance. Just because you have a new or trouble free home does not mean it does not require homeowner maintenance and does not exclude you from monetary responsibilities in the event of a failure. The best built homes can only last and remain trouble free through proper maintenance and upkeep.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING A MAINTENANCE ISSUE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME AT gtabert@integrityhomes.net AND I WILL BE HAPPY TO ASSIST YOU. IF YOU WOULD LIKE A COPY OF OUR NEWSLETTERS, OR WOULD LIKE TO BE ADDED TO OUR MAILING LIST, CALL US AT 847 487-9618.
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