Living in Connecticut, you can expect an average of 37 inches of snow per year! Although a fresh coating of snow over the yard may look pretty, it can potentially cause damage to your home. Learn a few effective ways to keep your property safe during a typical winter storm in New England.
Have a Working Heat Source
Snow forms when the temperature of the atmosphere is below freezing. A functional heating system in your home is important to keep out the cold and prevent frozen pipes. When the water inside a pipe freezes, it expands and could lead to a crack or burst with potentially dangerous results.
Consider investing in space heaters to use during a snowstorm but remember that safety comes first. Space heaters should be placed on a level surface at least 3 feet away from flammable items. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep and make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of the home.
If you lose power during a storm, having a back-up generator allows you to keep appliances, tools and space heaters running.
Protect Against Carbon Monoxide
If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector in your home, it’s time to install one! Furnaces, stoves and other gas-powered appliances are commonly used during snowstorms to help you stay warm or to cook dinner when traveling is not safe. Yet if ventilated incorrectly, they could unknowingly leak carbon monoxide.
A carbon monoxide detector can warn you if there is a high level of this colorless and odorless gas, so you and your family can exit your home and get to safety.
Clear the Gutters
Before a snowstorm, it’s crucial to clear your home’s gutters of any debris, including leaves and branches. If the gutters freeze, this could prevent snowmelt from draining properly, eventually causing damage to your home’s walls and foundation.
You can use a pressure washer, leaf blower or good pair of gloves to clear your gutters. Once free of debris, double check to ensure there are no cracks or broken pieces. If that’s the case, it may be time to call in a professional.
Check Windows and Doors
Is the heat blasting but your home still feels cold? This could be due to a draft from your doors or windows. One of the most common causes of drafts is your windows not being sealed properly or your door’s weather-stripping being worn down.
Luckily, drafts can be an easy fix! Re-apply calking or replace the weather-stripping to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.
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