Winter Maintenance and Safety
With
the onset of winter, it's a good idea to take steps to
prepare. Your house, vehicle and family can all benefit from planning
ahead. Simple maintenance can help you avoid the expense of major
repairs. Having the right items on hand can prevent health issues
and injuries. If you have not had your chimney inspected since the
August, 2011 earthquake, it would be a good idea to have it done before
you use your fireplace. While there was little obvious damage in the
area, your home may have experienced hidden damage. Near record-breaking
rainfall could have caused foundation and mold problems that could
get worse in the wintertime.
Maintenance
Energy
Safety
Vehicle
Maintenance
Your home
is probably your most valuable investment. When you think about what
you could possibly lose, you realize it's worth it to pay a little
money now to prevent costly damage later on.
• Clean
& inspect gutters and downspouts to avoid ice damage
• Seal
cracks & openings to keep out insects, mice and other pests
• Call
BGE at 410-685-0123 to trim branches away from power lines
• Remove
snow from outside stairwells & window wells
• Keep
snow away from walls
• Insulate
exposed outside pipes
• Address
weather damage immediately to avoid severe water
damage & mold
• If
you go away, leave the heat on at least 55 degrees.
• Seal
driveways, patios and decks
.
Energy
Even simple
steps can add up to a lot of money. Lowering your thermostat just
one degree can save you three percent on your heating bill. You can
save significantly more by lowering the temperature while you are
at work and when you are sleeping.
• Install
a programmable thermostat
• Lower
the pre-set temperature on your hot water heater
• Buy
a jacket for an older water heater
• $500
in upgraded insulation can save 20% on your heating
• Install
storm windows or cover the inside with clear plastic
• Close
the damper on your fireplace when not in use
• Keep
curtains open during the day to let in sunlight
• Close
curtains & blinds at night for more insulation
• Keep
closet doors closed to reduce the area being heated
©Copyright
2011 Douglas R. Barry.
