As the cooler weather starts to roll in and the leaves begin to turn, it's a good time to prepare your home and property for the cold, snow, and ice that the Pittsburgh area winter will bring. Many people think of simple tasks like cleaning the gutters or ensuring their heating systems are working, but there are a number of lesser-known tips that can make a huge difference in keeping your property running smoothly and efficiently. Here's a deeper dive into some essential fall preparation tasks you might not have considered.
1. Disconnect and Store Your Lawn Equipment Batteries
One commonly overlooked step in preparing for winter is caring for your lawn equipment, especially your mower. When you finish your last cut of the season, don't just put the mower away and forget about it until spring. It's important to disconnect the battery and store it in a dry, cool place like your garage or basement. Cold weather can drain a battery’s power, and freezing temperatures can damage its internal components. Bringing it indoors will ensure that it holds a charge and is ready to go when spring arrives.
2. Winterize Your Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems
Most people are familiar with the basics of draining hoses, but winterizing outdoor faucets often goes unmentioned. Leaving water in outdoor pipes can cause freezing and lead to expensive bursts. Shut off the water supply to your exterior spigots from inside your home and let them drain. If you have a sprinkler system, make sure to blow it out properly to avoid damage from trapped water freezing in the pipes.
3. Install Weatherstripping and Inspect for Drafts
Many homeowners lose money on heating bills due to air leaks they aren't even aware of. Fall is the perfect time to inspect your windows and doors for drafts. You can use an incense stick or candle to detect air leaks by holding it near window seams or door frames. If the smoke moves, you've got a draft. Installing new weatherstripping or caulking can save energy and money over the winter months. Pay special attention to basement windows, which can often be an unexpected culprit for heat loss.
4. Stock Up on Furnace Filters and Clean Your Ducts
As your heating system kicks into gear, it's important to have a stock of furnace filters on hand. Dirty filters make your heating system work harder and can lead to costly breakdowns. Change the filters at the start of the season and set reminders to swap them out every few months. Additionally, consider having your ducts professionally cleaned before winter sets in. Dust, allergens, and even mold can build up during the summer months, circulating through your home once the heat starts running.
5. Service Your Snow Removal Equipment Early
Snow shovels and snow blowers are often forgotten until the first big storm hits. Don't wait until you're knee-deep in snow to find out your snow blower won’t start. Early fall is the perfect time to inspect and service your snow removal equipment. Make sure you have enough fuel, check belts, and oil levels, and ensure blades or augers are in good condition. Stock up on salt or sand as well, so you aren’t caught off guard.
6. Trim Back Tree Branches Near Your Home
Heavy snow and ice can accumulate on tree branches, causing them to snap under pressure. If you have tree limbs hanging near your roof, garage, or power lines, fall is the ideal time to trim them back. This will prevent damage to your home or potential power outages during winter storms. Additionally, inspect trees for signs of disease or decay that could make them more likely to fall in harsh conditions.
7. Inspect and Clean Your Chimney
If you plan on using your fireplace to keep cozy, make sure it's safe to use. Have a professional inspect and clean your chimney to remove soot and creosote buildup, which can become a fire hazard. It's also a good idea to check that the damper opens and closes properly and that there are no animal nests blocking ventilation.
8. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
A lot of people don't know that most ceiling fans have a reverse setting. By flipping the switch to run the fan in a clockwise direction during the winter, you can help circulate warm air that rises to the ceiling, pushing it back down into the room. This small adjustment can improve heating efficiency, especially in homes with high ceilings.
9. Flush Your Water Heater
Sediment can build up in your water heater over time, making it less efficient and shortening its lifespan. Flushing your water heater before winter hits can improve its performance, ensuring you have a reliable supply of hot water during the colder months. This is especially important for homes in regions like the Pittsburgh area, where the temperature drop can lead to increased hot water use.
10. Prepare an Emergency Kit for Power Outages
Winter storms in the Pittsburgh area can often bring power outages, sometimes lasting for several days. Having an emergency kit on hand will help you ride out the storm. Stock up on essentials like non-perishable food, water, blankets, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. Also, consider a backup power source, like a portable generator, to keep critical appliances like your refrigerator or sump pump running.
Final Thoughts
Taking a little extra time now to prepare your home and yard for winter can save you from headaches, costly repairs, and discomfort once the cold weather sets in. These tips go beyond the basics and help ensure you're fully ready for whatever winter throws your way. Stay ahead of the game this year, and make your home a haven during the colder months.
