As the vibrant colors of autumn fade away and the temperature begins to drop, Chicagoans know that winter is just around the corner. With its freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and biting winds, winters in the Windy City can be brutal. To ensure a cozy and hassle-free winter season, it’s crucial to prepare your home in advance. There are some essential home maintenance tasks to tackle before winter arrives here in Chicagoland.
1. Make Sure You Have Proper Insulation in Your Home:
One of the most effective ways to keep your home warm and your energy costs lower during the winter months is to ensure its properly insulated. Start by checking for drafts around windows and doors. Seal any gaps that may have formed with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent cold air from seeping in and warm air from escaping. Consider adding additional insulation to your attic and walls for better temperature control and energy efficiency. If you need help hire an inspector to do an inspection with infrared to show cold zones and areas that need attention.
2. Service Your Heating System:
Your heating system will be working overtime in the winter, so it’s essential to have it serviced before the cold sets in. Hire a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean your furnace or boiler, replace filters, and make any necessary repairs. A well-maintained heating system not only keeps you warm but also reduces energy consumption and lowers your utility bills.
3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts:
Chicago winters often bring heavy snow and ice, which can lead to ice dams and water damage if your gutters and downspouts are clogged. Before winter, remove leaves, debris, and any obstructions from your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. This will help prevent water from backing up and causing roof and foundation issues.
4. Check Your Roof:
A sturdy roof is your first line of defense against winter weather. Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles and address any issues promptly. It’s also a good idea to trim overhanging tree branches that could potentially damage your roof during heavy snow or ice storms.
5. Prepare Your Plumbing:
Chicago’s freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing if not properly prepared and insulated. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, shut off exterior water faucets, and insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas like crawlspaces or the garage. Also, consider letting faucets drip slightly during extreme cold snaps to prevent frozen pipes.
6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:
With your heating system running more frequently, it’s crucial to ensure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order. Replace batteries and test these devices to keep your family safe throughout the winter.
7. Winterize Your Landscaping:
Before the first snowfall, take some time to winterize your landscaping. Trim bushes and trees away from your home to prevent damage from heavy snow and ice. Mulch can help protect flower beds from deep freeze. If you have a sprinkler system, be sure to drain and winterize it to prevent freezing. Mulch can help protect flower beds from deep freeze.
8. Stock Up on Winter Supplies:
Before the rush of winter weather, stock up on essential supplies. Purchase rock salt or ice melt for your walkways and driveway, ensure you have a contract with a plow service now if you utilize one, and check that you have shovels and snow blowers ready for action. Having these items prepared in advance and on hand will make dealing with snow and ice much more manageable.
By taking proactive steps to prepare your Chicago home for winter, you’ll not only stay warm and comfortable but also save on energy costs and prevent costly repairs down the road. Don’t wait until the first snowfall to get started—start your winter maintenance now, and you’ll be ready to embrace the beauty of a Chicago winter from the warmth and comfort of your well-prepared home.
