Barb Allen: Reno, Nevada Solid Source Realtor

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6 Easy Steps to Winterize Your Home

This morning I went out back and realized how chilly it was getting. I decided it was the perfect day to start preparing my home for the cold temperatures of the fall season. So here is a short list of what I do every year to be prepared and avoid a hassle in cold months.

  1. Ensure all your hoses are disconnected from the hose bibs on the house. Water trapped in by the hose will freeze and crack the pipes. A plumbing emergency is easily avoidable and expensive to repair. I will hang garden hoses over tree limbs to be sure all the water has drained, then roll them up and put them in the shed.

  2. Turn off and drain swamp coolers. Covering the airflow vent into your house will help insulate from the outside air. Also, you can cover the swamp cooler itself. If you do not have a canvas cover, you can use plastic wrap in a pinch. It works better than you might think.

  3. If your home has a sprinkler system, it is essential to get it drained and shut off for the season. If you need help, hire a professional, or Youtube can help.

  4. Hire a professional HVAC technician to give your furnace a checkup, change filters, make sure it cycles correctly and clean it up a bit. This precaution is vital for the health of your furnace and your lungs. The cost is about $100 and well worth it.

  5. Anything that can get caught in a strong wind should be moved inside. So I put my cushions and pillows in the shed, take down any yard decor that could fly, and move wind chimes into my covered patio area. I can still hear them chime, but I know they are safe from harm.

  6. If you have a fireplace, please hire a chimney sweep. It’s been a long hot summer, and who knows what could have happened with your duct or chimney. Better to be safe and warm than sorry and VERY warm, if you get my drift.

Those are the biggies. As the season rolls on, I will think of other things to do in addition. As for me, it is my favorite time of year. Some good preparation makes for more time to enjoy!

Are you ready to buy or sell a home in Reno, Sparks, or Carson City? Let’s chat!

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