Don’t let the Texas summer heat fool you. Texas winters can be brutal. Winter storms can disrupt power lines and extreme cold can freeze pipes. Here are some things you can do to ensure your home is warm, safe and protected.
Insulate Your Pipes
Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas of your home. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and consider installing frost-proof outdoor faucets. Make sure you know where your main water valve is located so you can cut off your water in case of an emergency.
Check the HVAC System
The first and foremost concern during winter is staying warm. Schedule a professional inspection of your heating system well before winter hits. This will help identify any issues and ensure your furnace or heating system is in good working order. Replace air filters, clean vents and consider installing a smart thermostat for better energy efficiency.
Check Your Door Locks
It may seem silly to prepare your door locks for winter, but they can freeze. Spray a little powdered graphite lubricant into each door then turn the key in the lock. The powder lubricates the pins inside the lock to prevent sticking. You only need to do it once per season.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
Hot air rises so reversing the direction of fans will create an updraft, which, in turn, will push down any heated air pressed against your room’s ceiling. By circulating warm air, you’ll use heat more efficiently, which could cut energy costs.
Give Trees a Trim
Inspect the trees on your property for overhanging branches that could break and damage your home during a winter storm. Prune or remove them to prevent accidents.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Test and replace batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Consider installing additional detectors, if necessary, especially in bedrooms and near heating sources.
Clean Out Gutters
Gutters collect debris. If you don’t clean them out, that debris can freeze into a big, icy mass. The mass can then damage your roof. Get a ladder and scoop it out before the first storm arrives.
Check the Roof
If you just moved into a new Marvida home, your roof is in good shape, but it never hurts to look anyway — especially after the first winter storm. Look for damaged or missing shingles that may leak during winter’s storms.
Winterize Your Sprinkler System
Drain your sprinkler system so the water doesn’t freeze in it. You can also pay someone to do a sprinkler system blowout. A blowout uses high-pressure air to force water out of the pipes, eliminating the problem of water sitting in low spots.
Check Your Home Insurance Coverage
Review your coverage to make sure there are no surprises. Confirm how your policy would cover potential winter damage. If you aren’t sure something will be covered by your existing carrier, shop around.
Purchase a Home in Marvida
Purchasing a new home in Marvida can make your winter prep chores easier. New homes are better insulated and better protected against all types of weather. Plus, everything is under warranty. Visit us today.
