The last few weeks have been cold, but 2018 looks even more frigid. Lows are predicted to be in the teens and single digits, approaching zero in the higher elevations of Haywood, Jackson, and Madison counties. As temperatures plummet in Asheville and throughout western North Carolina, it is important for homeowners to make sure their homes are ready. Extreme temperatures can stretch your home’s systems and ultimately cause malfunctions that lead to costly repairs.
In this article and the next, we will discuss 10 tips for making sure your home is ready for winter in Asheville, NC.
1) Make Sure Your HVAC System is Properly Maintained
You will need your heater to blow reliable warm air throughout this cold snap; therefore, it is imperative your unit is properly maintained. Proper HVAC maintenance includes:
- Changing air filters
- Checking for leaks
- Cleaning fans
- Checking and maintaining proper clearance
- Cleaning ducts
- Change furnace filter
2) Replace Draft Windows
Old, drafty windows can release as much as 25% of your home’s heating energy, raising bills and leaving your family in the cold. Repair or replace drafty windows with higher efficiency units. Call Mobile Magic to maintain and clean those new windows, or spruce up your existing ones.
3) Insulate Water Heater and Exposed Pipes
With numerous basements and below ground-level garages in the Asheville area, exposed plumbing can cause problems for homeowners when the temperatures dip below freezing for a prolonged period of time. Consider wrapping exposed pipes with designated pipe insulation. Additionally, you may wrap your water heater in an insulating blanket.
4) Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Many western North Carolina homeowners will supplement heat from their HVAC units with wood burning stoves, kerosene heaters, and other units. Make sure you check the batteries and function of your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, especially when utilizing supplemental heating sources.
5) Keep an Emergency Preparedness Kit
Your winter emergency preparedness kit should include:
- Blankets and coats
- Non-perishable food items
- Clean water
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Back up batteries/chargers for cell phones
- Key phone numbers
- Shovel and other tools
- Board games, playing cards, etc.
- Whatever you and your family might need if the power goes out for 72 hours
For more information about pressure washing your home’s surfaces, from solar panels to siding, contact Mobile Magic Pressure Washing. We have been providing the Asheville area with the highest quality pressure washing services for over a decade.
