September is a good time to start thinking of preparing your home for the winter because as temperatures fall, your house will need some maintenance to keep it in good shape during the cold weather. No matter where you live in Colorado, you can expect snow or rain and it is best to be prepared for it. Here are some tips to get you started.
Start by inspecting your furnace because it will be invaluable in winter. Get an HVAC professional to take a good look and to clean the ducting so that hot air circulates through the house smoothly. Stock up on furnace filters and remember to change them every month. If you happen to have a hot water radiator, prepare the valves by turning on the water slightly and then turning it off the moment water appears.
Next turn your attention to your fireplace. Install a screen on top of your chimney so that birds and small rodents cannot get in. If necessary, call in the chimney sweep to clear out the soot that has been deposited in the chimney. Stock up on firewood and store it in an area that is dry and not adjacent to the exterior of your house. Check to see that the damper in your fireplace is opening and closing properly.
Inspect the exterior of your house and in particular the doors and windows. Look for cracks and exposed areas around pipes and seal them properly. Replace any cracked or broken window glass and, if necessary, replace the entire window. Consider protecting the windows in your basement with plastic shields and install your storm windows if you happen to possess them.
Prepare your plumbing so that it does not freeze during the winter. Make sure you know where your water main is located so that you can turn it off quickly if the need arises. Completely drain on your garden hoses and make sure that exposed pipes are adequately insulated. Drain the water from your air-conditioning unit and shut off the water supply. Finally if you are away from the house for any length of time, make sure the heat is left turned on at a temperature of at least 55?.
Put together a proper emergency kit and make sure that includes candles and matches in case of a power failure. Keep the phone number of your local utility next to the phone in case of need. Build a small stock of bottled water and canned food including food for your pets. Store extra blankets and a first-aid kit in a location that is easy and convenient to access.
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