AccuWeather is Forecasting More Than Usual Amount of Snow for Northeast – How to Prepare Your Home For Winter

As the days get shorter and the nights get colder I begin to mentally prepare myself for what is ahead this winter.  After virtually a snow free winter last year you just know we’re going to get hammered with the white stuff and cold temperatures.  AccuWeather has  forecasted a snowier-than-average winter for those of us in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

How should you prepare for a cold and snowy winter? 

1. Get your home heating system inspected.  I just made an appointment to do this in mid-October.  Using a qualified technician is the best way to ensure your system is in tip top shape for the cold months ahead.  They can check and cleans your ducts, replace filters or in my case clean them.  This will also improve your heating systems efficiency.
2. Clean your gutters.  I learned very early on that neglecting gutters is a big no-no.  My gutters and drains went to long and it caused damage to my garage roof, it warped the door etc.  Cleaning your gutters will help with ice blockage and drainage from snow on the roof.  This is especially important if you have trees near them.  Be sure to get those leaves out of your gutters so water can properly move through them.
3. Replace smoke and carbon monoxide batteries.  This is a simple way to ensure the safety of your family.  While you’re at it, make sure your flashlight batteries are replaced too.
4. Disconnect hoses.  Here’s another thing I never really thought of until a friend of mine told me that I should disconnect my garden hose from the side of the house.  It makes sense because water will freeze in the house and could back up in pipes and cause them to burst.  I also turn of the water valve the leads to my outside for faucet.
5. Fertilize for winter.  I admit I do not and probably won’t do this step, but if you are someone who loves your lawn to be the best in your neighborhood it’s a good way to help it stay healthy during the hard winter snow and cold.