How to Prepare Your Seasonal Home for Winter
We can’t believe we’re already nearing the end of summer! As the weather on Cape Cod cools off in the next few weeks, many homeowners are starting to think about the ways they need to prepare their vacation home for the winter season. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few smart steps you can take before the cold weather sets in to protect your seasonal home.
Schedule Utility Repairs
Take care of any plumbing repairs, as well as electrical services or issues with your HVAC systems, before closing up your home. Even minor issues can be worsened by the impending cold weather, and if left unattended, can cause serious damage.
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Secure Outdoor Items & Inspect Exterior of Home
Walk around your property to check for loose siding, roof damage, or anything that could leave your home vulnerable in harsh weather conditions. Call in for repairs if necessary. Also, be sure to bring in or cover your outdoor appliances and furniture and disconnect water hoses.
Adjust Thermostat & Unplug Electronics & Appliances
Many suggest setting your thermostat to 55 degrees to prevent your pipes from freezing and energy waste. To save even more energy, be sure to unplug your unused electronics and appliances. This will also protect these items against potential power surges.
Top Off Your Heating Oil or Propane Tanks
Filling your tank before the winter season helps protect your home’s heating system, prevent a potential runout and damage from freezing temperatures. If you sign up for automatic heating oil delivery or automatic propane delivery with Snow’s Fuel, you will rest well knowing your home will always have the fuel it needs!
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Close the Home Properly
Inspect your doors, windows, and vents for drafts. Be sure to seal off those gaps to keep the cold air and potential pests out. If you have a fireplace, close your flues and dampers to prevent heat loss.
Turn Off Your Main Water Supply
Shutting off your main water line can help prevent frozen or burst pipes when the temperatures eventually dip below freezing. Be sure to open all your interior and exterior faucets and flush your toilets after you’ve turned off the supply to remove any remaining water. You can also call in a Snow’s professional to assist with plumbing winterization!
Make a Plan to Check in Periodically
Whether you take the trip to check on your property personally or entrust the task to a neighbor or friend, it’s always ideal to have someone stop in occasionally. A quick walkthrough can help you catch issues early and prevent them from becoming larger problems. Before you leave, be sure Snow’s Fuel has up-to-date contact info for you and your caretakers in case anything comes up during the winter.
Contact Snow’s Fuel to Help You Prepare Your Home for Winter
No matter if you’re in need of HVAC system maintenance or repairs, need a skilled electrical team, or simply are looking for a reliable fuel company to ensure your seasonal home is never without heat, we have you covered. Snow’s Fuel has an extensive team of certified professionals ready to assist you in winterizing your home and ensuring it’s ready for you when you return next summer.
Need to book a service or request an estimate? Get in contact with our team today to get started!