As we prep for a cold front to sweep through, here are some things you can do to ensure your home is prepared for the freeze. Stay warm out there!
Open cabinet doors
If you have pipes along an outside wall for a bathroom or kitchen sink, keep the cupboard or vanity doors open to allow the warm air to circulate to the pipes.
Check your spigots + disconnect your hose
This is one of the simplest steps you can take to protect your home during a freeze. Disconnect any garden hoses. If you have a shut-off valve inside your home, turn off the water here and leave the spigot open. If not, simply turn off the water. Cover the spigot with an insulated faucet cover.
Leave faucets running at a trickle
Leave faucets running very slowly, three to four drips per minute, so water continues to move through the lines. It is much more difficult for moving water to freeze.
Locate water shut off valve + know how to use it
In the case that you need to shut off your water quickly, it’s imperative that you know how to do so.
Open doors/vents to your attic + basement
Keeping these spaces warm will help ensure that your pipes don’t freeze.
Change your Furnace filter
You want to be sure the system is running well and does not shut down from a clogged filter.
Turn up your thermostat
Make sure you leave the heat on at all times during a cold snap, even if you’re not at home during the day. Make sure the thermostat is set to at least 60 degrees throughout the cold snap.
Caulk windows and doors or block the breeze
If you don’t have a chance to caulk around your windows and doors this fall, and don't have weather stripping on hand, an ordinary towel can be a big help. Place a rolled-up towel on any windowsill or at the bottom of your doors to block any drafts. It can make a huge difference, not just in your comfort but also in your heating bill.
Check carbon monoxide detectors
Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order. This is a good idea anyway but it’s particularly important if you are using a fireplace or wood-burning stove, or if you didn’t have a chance to have your heating system inspected this fall.
Keep reading for more tips + tricks.
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