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W i n t e R M a i n t e n a n c e t i p s F o R y o u R H o M e
by Anne Thornton, President, MSI Plumbing & Remodeling
The temperatures are falling, but before winter's chill descends there are
a lot of things to do inside and outside your home to get it ready for winter.
Here are a few things to do to get you started.
• Remove screens from windows and install storm windows (helps reduce the
cost to heat your home and prevents window sills from rotting).
• Clean out gutters and downspouts (helps keeps ice dams from forming).
• Insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic (keeps pipes from
freezing; the more insulation, the better!).
• Store firewood at least 30 feet away from your home (reduces chance of
fire and termites).
• Familiarize responsible family members with the gas main valve and other
appliance valves (if you are not sure, have a plumber come out to teach you).
• Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer
(lint build up causes fires!).
• Make sure all electrical holiday decorations have tight connections (Use
3-prong plus and cords for best grounding and unplug when not in use.
Cords should never be bundled together or run under rugs or carpet).
• Check the attic for adequate ventilation (check exterior wall to be sure
ceiling insulation is not blocking outside air from soffit vents).
• Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter (keeping the hood clean of
cooking grease helps keep a stovetop fire from spreading).
• Check the water hoses on the clothes washer, refrigerator icemaker and dishwasher
for cracks and bubbles (replace any hoses that show signs of leaking).
• Test all ground-fault-circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlets (these should be
tripped and reset once a month; if they do not trip or reset, have the outlet
changed by a qualified electrician).
All of us at MSI Plumbing & Remodeling are wishing you the happiest
of holidays. Have fun and stay safe! For more information about home
maintenance, installing water-efficient appliances, remodeling and improving your
home, please visit us at our office, give us a call or visit us online. MSI Plumbing
& Remodeling, 908.735.4438. www.MSIPlumbingAndRemodeling.com.
"For it is in giving
that we receive."
~ Francis of Assisi
