Ep 4 - Winterization and Christmas Fun - a podcast by Brian Cook And Kindra Cox

The following are some Winter Home Maintenance Tips that were discussed on the December 26, 2019, episode of The Brian and Kindra Show.  These tips may be helpful to you whether you rent or own your own home.

 

Have your home heating system checked out by a Heat and Air Professional.  Some gas heating systems have cracks in the chambers, which can produce carbon monoxide.  It’s also a good idea to make air filters are changed on your heating and air unit to keep it running smoothly.  Have the filter delivered monthly so that when it arrives, you are alerted to change them. If filters are not changed periodically, the A-coil will become dirty reducing air flow and creating inefficiency.  Also, check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors!

Another important Winter Maintenance tip is to have the fireplace and chimney inspected.  As fires are burned, the chimney can become corroded with creosote build-up.  Additionally, leafy debris can be found in the fireplace/chimney and even an occasional bird nest!  These things are also fire hazards.  It is also wise to check the chimney for cracks and repair as needed.    

Be sure to unhook water hoses from the outside water hydrants that are connected to the house. If the hose is not removed, it creates the potential of water freezing in the pipe, bursting and then a huge problem in the spring.  

Another helpful tip is to check for Air Leaks. An infrared thermometer can be purchased inexpensively.  The thermometer will tell you the temperature of where you point the ray so that you’ll know if you have an inefficient space.  For example, if it’s 40° outside and your window shows 40° also, then your windows are letting in cold air and hurting your efficiency.   Often air also seeps in through doors or windows that are not well sealed.  Adding weather stripping or a door sweep can easily and inexpensively help with this issue. 

Keep tree limbs trimmed away from your home.  If limbs are touching the roof they will damage shingles.  Additionally, leaves that fall on the roof tend to collect in the valleys.  These leaves will create dams that push water back up under the shingles or they will slide down into the gutters.  Then, they can push back under the shingles on the lower level or create imbalanced gutters.  

In the winter, the blades of the ceiling fan should run clockwise to push the heated air down.  This is especially important in homes with tall ceilings.  

If any of these items are still confusing or if you have questions, contact your real estate professional for more information.  Best wishes in your real estate search! 

 

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