Winter storms of water, ice, and wind can devastate your home. But there are steps you can take to prepare your home for winter. Late November is usually when temperatures drop, but it is never too early to start. From checking your HVAC system to getting replacement windows and doors in Oregon City, OR, here are ten things you can do to winterize your home:
Check the Heating System
Start with your furnace and thermostat. Check to make sure everything is in working order. Swap out the air filters if they are clogged. And schedule your annual HVAC maintenance. All of these efforts will help you avoid unnecessary breakdowns when you need your furnace the most.
Reverse the Ceiling Fans
If you have ceiling fans in your great rooms you can run them slowly in reverse. The clockwise motion helps pull up the rising warm air and redistribute it back down to the living spaces.
Insulate Pipes
You want to make sure you wrap your water heater and pipes so they do not freeze and burst in the cold weather. There are instructions you can follow on the unit. But if you believe your pipes are at risk and you want help contract a plumber.
Find the Main Water Shutoff Valve
While preparing your water system for the cold it is also important to locate the shutoff valve. Hopefully, you don’t need it, but if the pipes do freeze you want to be able to shut down the water.
Clean Out Gutters
Gutters help the water run away from your home. But you have to keep them clear. Make sure you remove the debris like leaves, sticks, and acorns so the gutters don’t clog in the winter. Otherwise, you could end up with long-term water damage.
Trim Trees
You want to trim back dead branches and prune your trees in the dormant seasons. This will help keep growing branches strong.
Seal Exterior Cracks
Check your windows, doors, and any openings in the exterior of your home. Make sure they are sealed, caulked, or insulated. Any gaps could have a huge impact on energy costs.
Stock Up on Supplies
Severe winter storms can cause power outages. Prepare for emergency situations by gathering supplies. You want flashlights, batteries, toiletries, medications, and food and water for three days. First-aid supplies, heating fuel, a lighter, and a can opener will also prove useful.
Check Batteries 
For safety, you also want to check the batteries of your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. The risk of residential fires and carbon monoxide poisoning increase in the winter.
Cover or Store Patio Furniture
To preserve your patio from year to year you want to store it in a dry, warm place. This prevents corrosion.
Replacement Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are the main points where heat leaves and cold enters the home. Replacement windows and doors can provide better insulation and higher energy savings.
Looking for Oregon City, OR replacement windows and doors? Contact EnergyGuard Windows & Doors. You can call (503) 554-5500. Or you can visit 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132.