The snowpocalypse of 2021 hit a lot of Texans harder than we thought possible in our sunny state––burst pipes, days without heat, and no electricity are just some of the problems we faced. If you’re looking ahead and ready to get your home prepared in case of another freeze, we’ve got you covered. 

This comprehensive list will keep your home and family ready to tackle any extreme weather that may come our way. Stay toasty! 

 

Schedule your HVAC Inspection

It may seem obvious, but a working HVAC system will definitely come in handy when the temperature starts to drop. Scheduling an HVAC inspection now could save you from losing precious heat when you need it most. 

If you haven’t already, go ahead and change out your old air filter for a new one to improve the efficiency of your system as well.

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Clear Your Roof and Gutters of Debris

Debris in gutters or on the roof can trap moisture–not a great combination with freezing temperatures. An ice impacted gutter system can cause damage to your home’s structural integrity AND poses a safety risk for your family. Clear any leftover debris from fall leaf-shedding before expected temperature drops. 

This is also a great time to schedule your annual roof inspection to get ahead of any unforeseen weather damage or structural issues such as missing shingles.

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Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should be changed annually for optimal use, so this is the perfect item to add to your winter prep list. Checking the functionality of both systems should also be done monthly. 

Inspect and Clean Your Fireplace

If your home has a fireplace, it’s likely not going to be ready for immediate use without a little TLC first. Your chimney should be cleared of any clogs, such as bird’s nests and debris, as well as flue and chimney draft inspections. 

Keep a nice stockpile of wood ready––nothing is cozier than a warm fire during a cold night. 

Insulate Your Home

This is a big one for keeping the heat in and the cold out. Not only is proper insulation important for you, it will also help keep your pipes from freezing as well. Repair or replace any damaged weatherstripping on doors and windows. Check for holes and cracks on the exterior (near windows is a common place for cracking to occur) and fill them with caulk. 

Your attic or wall may need a refresh as well, so don’t be afraid to get new insulation materials or hire a professional to assess your needs. Insulating blankets are also a great DIY measure when wrapped around your water heater and are readily available at most hardware stores.

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Care for Outside Water Sources

You probably won’t be doing any yard work during the winter months, so now is a good time to disconnect and drain water hoses, sprinkler systems, and fountains. You can even pick up specially designed insulation covers from your local hardware store to cover outside faucets for extra freeze prevention. 

If your yard has a pool, remember to maintain proper water levels, remove any automatic cleaning equipment, and drain/clean all pool equipment for storage. 

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Winter is here, but that doesn’t mean we have to meet the ice unprepared. Hopefully these tips help you stay toasty! 

For all of your home’s maintenance and remodeling needs, look no further than The Good Contractors List! We’ve sifted through thousands of DFW contractors to bring you the best of the best in each field. You can trust all the contractors on our list as licensed, vetted professionals who will put YOU, the homeowner, first. We’re so sure you’ll love their work that we even back all of our contractors with a $10,000 guarantee! Visit us online at thegoodcontractorslist.com to view experienced contractors near you!