Winter Maintenance Checklist Importance:

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Be prepared for cold weather by following these simple SERVPRO tips.

WINTER MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST IMPORTANCE:

The winter months can be a demanding time for you and your home. Bitter cold, wind, sleet, storms, and more can happen during this season!

Fortunately, several tasks can be performed at the start of the winter season to maximize your energy usage and lower your costs! Make a checklist and perform these tasks each winter season.

OUTSIDE MAINTENANCE

Go outside and check around your house for proper seals on doors, windows, and garages—seal leaks with weatherstripping or caulk application.

Also, make sure you inspect the roof, gutters, and downspouts for damage or potential for damage/loss.

Winter storms can cause damage to your roof. After storms, check for broken or missing shingles.

Inspect and clean your chimney to prevent fires in the winter. You can also cover your air conditioning and grill units.

INSIDE MAINTENANCE:

Inside the home, take a look at cleaning several critical components of household appliances, etc. You can dust and vacuum refrigerator/freezer coils, as well as clean and empty drip trays. Take a look at cleaning and removing debris in your drains in sinks, dishwashers, tubs, showers. This can include built-up hair, toothpaste, soap, etc. These items can cause unneeded blockage and buildup in these pipes.

Take a minute to dust and vacuum bathroom exhaust van grills and vents.

Go into your basement and check for leaks during and after thaws. These may have been overlooked and need attention immediately if you have water infiltration. Make sure you have proper sealing around exit points. Animals seek shelter, and many smaller critters can get in through minor gaps. You do not want to spend a winter’s night with Mickey Mouse at your side unknowingly!

TECHNOLOGY UPDATES:

A programmable thermostat is an uncomplicated way to save on heating costs. You can set the settings to turn the heat down when sleeping or away from home. You can even access most programmable thermostats now through a phone app to make changes as needed.

You should also check your technology inside and outside the home to ensure proper usage of automated lighting systems, security systems, etc.

TAKEAWAYS:

Simple maintenance and prevention methods can go a long way to avoid significant and expensive problems at your home.

If you find yourself in a winter mess, please reach out by CALLING SERVPROat 888-886-5195 or the local SERVPRO of Lake of the Ozarks at (573)346-7200.