It’s not uncommon for Chicago to experience an extreme cold snap in January or February. And while not uncommon, it’s best not to be unprepared. There are a few different ways that frigid cold temperatures can cause damage to your home. Follow these simple steps in and around your home to keep things running smoothly.
Inside your home:
- Set your thermostat to a minimum of 65 degrees. Keep the setting consistent, same temp all day and night. This helps prevent your water pipes from freezing, which can lead to bursting pipes.
- Check your furnace settings to make sure the humidifier is set to match the outside temperature.
- Examine your furnace filter and replace if necessary.
- Turn off space heaters when you sleep or leave your home.
- Know the location of the main the main water shutoff valve in your home. Keep the surrounding area clear for easy access.
- Inspect your windows and doors for cracks and air seepage. Invest in a window insulation kit.
- Slowly drip hot and cold faucets at night to keep the water moving in the pipes to prevent freezing. In an unfinished basement, keep the laundry sink dripping.
- Close your fireplace flue when not in use.
Outside your home:
- Clear snow and ice from sidewalks and entrances to your home. If you use salt, make sure it is child and pet friendly.
- Notice any hazardous icicles in and around the entrances and remove them.
- Check the exterior HVAC and dryer vents to make sure they aren’t blocked by snow and ice.
- Look for ice dams near gutter downspouts, remove blockages.
- Inspect your roof for too much snow accumulation. If you have water leaks or damning, call your roofer. Check for interior water damage.
- Remove snow from wood railings deck and balconies, it may cause warping.
- Examine your trees for damaged or dead branches that could break and fall.
If you have any questions about real estate or need referrals for home maintenance, give us a call. Hope you’re keeping warm and enjoying winter. Spring is around the corner!
