The recent freezing temperatures are probably reminding you of last year’s wild winter weather, but is your home ready for a repeat?
With more low temperatures in the forecast, it’s a good idea to get prepared to prevent damage. Here are some tips based on issues we’ve found in the field.
Clean Your Pool Filter
Did you know pool companies are STILL backlogged from all the damage to pools from last year’s storms? Your pool equipment should have a freeze sensor so that it automatically runs during freezing weather.
If your filter is clogged, it can’t run water through the pipes. You need to keep the filter cleaned so the system can do its job.
If only there were some way to tell when you need to clean the filter … oh wait.
Maintain Outdoor Faucets
Before freezing weather, do a quick inventory of your outdoor faucets and make sure you have a plan to cover them. Run each one to check for any leaks, and if you find one, call a plumber.
In this video, the leak is inside the wall, so they will have to remove the brick to repair it.
Check Your Fireplace
A lot of people had to depend on their fireplaces for heat last year when the power went out. Make sure your fireplace is properly maintained. You don’t want to find out you have a clogged flue in an emergency.
Here, the chimney is missing the rain cap, which prevents moisture, debris, and small animals from getting in the house. During cold weather, critters are looking for shelter, too.
Clean Your Rain Gutters
This time of year, a lot of dead leaves and debris have probably collected in your gutters, and you may end up with standing water like this. In a freeze, this could cause the gutters to pull away from the house and/or collapse.
As a homeowner, you should hope for the best but prepare for the worst. If you need help with winter home maintenance, you can #AskAHomeInspector with a Home Maintenance Checkup.
