4 Steps to Prepare your home for a PNW Winter
11/20/2023
Preparing your home for winter can feel like a daunting task, yet it is important to help your family be comfortable, safe, and save money. The complete list of “have-to’s” can seem daunting and may not be what every homeowner needs. This list is a starting point to make your home a comfortable and affordable place during the Pacific Northwest Winters.
1. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
One of the first items on your winter to do list is check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If your home runs on any propane or wood burning appliances or heaters, it is important your detection systems are working. Having a smoke detector can alert your family to respond should a fire occur.
Just as important are the carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that has serious health effects if it builds up in large quantities. Blocking up of chimneys and vents can cause a dangerous build up that a carbon monoxide detector can alert you and your family. Check all of the alarms around your home for proper functionality following the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Clean out Gutters
Cleaning out the gutters on your home can keep your family safe and save you money in the long run. The effects of blocked up gutters includes damage to your home including siding and roof damage. Letting that go over the years can cause risks to the safety and integrity of your home. Regularly cleaning your gutters keeps them working properly and makes each cleaning less time-consuming. It is still a good idea to consider hiring a professional to clean the gutters to avoid ladder-related injuries.
3. Properly Seal your Home
One easy way to help save money on your energy bills is sealing up any spot where cold air can get in. The biggest areas that come to mind are your windows and doors. Make sure windows and doors close properly or have weather stripping for a snug fit. Putting caulk or weather stripping on any outlet (windows frames, pipes, etc.) that go to the outside. Follow these tips and checks from the Department of Energy on how to make your home airtight.
4. Insulate your Home
One of the best ways to help save money on your energy bills in the winter is to properly insulate the walls and ceiling of your home. Sealing up your home can make a difference, and properly insulating your home will see long term benefits. Older homes typically will have less insulation and need more attention than modern built homes. The wet winters and limited daylight mean your home needs all the help it can to stay warm. You can perform your own check on how well your home is insulated or hire an energy assessor to do a complete assessment. The work may be expensive to add the proper insulation, and it can pay for itself in a few short years. a few short years.
Following these 4 steps ensure a safe and comfortable home for you and your family. The time investment or cost of a professional can feel like a lot. It will be worth the time to remove worry and reduce bills in the future. Take the steps to prepare your home for a Pacific Northwest Winter.
