We may not live in the coldest climate in the Carolinas and Georgia, but that’s not to say that the occasional ice storm or snow appearance doesn’t cause some problems. Follow these winterizing tips from Papay Insurance to ensure your home is a comfortable and safe living environment during the approaching colder months. These tips not only help keep your home safe and secure but can also lessen energy costs through the season.
1. Reverse Ceiling Fans: Switch the direction of ceiling fan blades to spin clockwise at a low speed to circulate warm air down from the ceiling.
2. Chimney Maintenance: Clean and inspect chimneys annually to reduce the risk of fire and carbon monoxide intrusion if you have a working fireplace.
3. Water Heater Temperature: Lower the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit for comfort, potentially saving energy and reducing wear on pipes.
4. Furnace Tune-Up: Schedule an annual tune-up for your furnace to ensure it runs efficiently. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to save on heating costs.
5. Draft Prevention: Use weatherstripping, window film, and caulk to control heat loss around doors, windows, and baseboards. Removing screens from storm doors can further reduce drafts.
6. Pool Closing: Clean out debris and drain water from your pool to prepare it for winter.
7. Pest Prevention: Seal any holes and cracks around your home’s exterior to prevent pests from seeking shelter indoors.
8. Avoid Burst Pipes: Shut off water to exterior faucets, drain the lines, and insulate pipes near exterior walls or in unheated areas.
By following these tips, you can make your home more energy-efficient, comfortable, and secure during the winter months- even here in the southern east coast. If you have concerns about your home’s protection this season we would love to discuss your options for home insurance coverage. At Papay Insurance we are here to help give our customers the best knowledge we can so they can protect their home in the best way for them.