How to Winterize A Home: Checklist For Your Scottsdale Home
As the temperatures begin to fall, many Arizona residents are actually relieved that the hot days of summer have vanished – at least for a few months. But, the truth remains that it can get down-right cold during a winter in the desert. And in order to prepare for the colder winter nights many Scottsdale residents will take preventive steps to learn how to winterize a home affordably – yet ensure safety and energy efficiency as well.
4 Easy Tips That Any Scottsdale Home Owner Should Consider
Tip #1 – Check the Roof
Although most houses in Arizona have solid, tiled roofs, from time to time these tiles will crack, potentially causing leaks or other problems to occur. As the temperatures fall, it’s a good idea to hire a roof inspector or if you can, grab a ladder and inspect the roof for any worn out or loose tiles. It’s also advisable to check the flashing for any potential areas that can lead to leaks, and also clean out the gutters of any leaves or debris. Arizona doesn’t get a lot of rain in winter, but the best way to avoid any potential leaks is to start by cleaning and inspecting your roof.
Tip #2 – Have Your HVAC System Inspected
Another important step to check before the cold weather arrives is your home heating system or HVAC system. In Arizona, there are several high-quality home heating specialists that will come to your house and complete a good routine maintenance program to ensure your entire HVAC system is in working order. Not only do they check the actual heater, but they will also verify (if you ask them) that the ductwork is in working order and is not leaking.
Tip #3 – Prepare Your Landscaping
It’s important to remember that preparing your landscaping for winter can save you a lot of money. If you live in the mountains near Scottsdale, always make sure you have your irrigation system blown out prior to freezing temperatures arriving. Frozen water pipes outside can lead to significant water damage and costly repairs. You should also consider having any exterior water pipes wrapped in insulation when you live in the Valley – as sometimes cold weather can freeze these pipes and cause damage. This is also a good time to inspect your driveway, patio and other areas for any cracks in the foundation that should be repaired prior to winter.
Tip #4 – Check Your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Finally, as the winter arrives in Scottsdale, home fire season approaches. Most accidents inside a home that lead to fires often occur in winter; when people are cooking more indoors and have installed holiday decorations powered by electricity. And the first step you can make to ensure you are alerted to any potential fire is to have your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors inspected and in working order. Carbon monoxide is known as a silent killer – as it’s hard to detect for people without damage already being done. And when the house is secured and windows shut carbon monoxide can rise inside a home in winter. Be proactive – and be prepared by making sure these two life-saving systems are in working order.
Winter is also a great time to have a few home improvement projects completed in Scottsdale. But safety and security of everybody inside the house should always be your priority. If you follow these four simple tips on how to winterize your home, you and your home will be prepared to enjoy a relaxing and energy efficient winter in Scottsdale.
