Happy domestic living isn’t necessarily about having the most expensive rugs, a sound system of remarkable clarity and a California king sized bed.
Sometimes, it’s as much about the smooth running of the home, and a domestic life not defined by breakdowns and repairs. In the absence of home maintenance, homeowners only make more work for themselves later down the line, which can be difficult to handle, physically, mentally and financially. As such, it’s important to always have a checklist ready for the different seasons.
When it comes to the winter, you should be preparing your home before the holiday season hits, in order to anticipate any issues before they become something only a professional can deal with. With that in mind, here’s how to prep your home for the holiday season with these 5 checks.
CHECK THE CENTRALISED HEATING SYSTEM
When it comes to funding your house’s heating (and cooling) system, it is a heavy investment, and depending on the quality, on average, a heating and cooling system can last for up to 15 years. Some systems might last two decades, depending on the level and frequency of maintenance. That said, you might want to call in a professional expert and have the filters and boiler covers checked; click here for more info.
Besides, if you are renting a house or apartment, it is recommended to check the place’s annual/ monthly maintenance agreement papers. If applicable, you may ask your landlord to check the heating system and ensure that everything is working fine and that you won’t have any problems in the winter. If a boiler needs replacing, it’s their responsibility.
PROTECT YOUR PIPES
A frozen pipe is simply not something you want to mess with; it can burst, flood your home and cause a myriad of problems in the process. Before we enter the deepest recesses of Winter, it’s sensible to check yours are clear of obstruction and damage.
Prevention is clearly preferable to cure here, and the best way to pre-empt and protect from frozen or burst pipes is to keep your house at a consistent temperature, preferably via your thermostat. Even if you’re away on a winter holiday, it’s a good idea to have your heating on a timer, at least coming on for a couple of hours each day, to keep your pipes in good nick. Insulating your pipes is also a smart move.
Read: How to save your home from damp this season
SEAL ALL WINDOWS & DOORS
While the interior of your house needs upgrading, it is equally important to assess whether the outer space of your house needs to be inspected as well. Check all windows and door frames for potential cracks and crevices that enable the cold air to enter the cosy interior of your house.
Usually, the different natural elements, such as the blazing sun and the rain, snow, hail, etc., affect the wooden trip on the outside, and the best way to protect it is to have it either caulked or painted. While you are at it, don’t forget to caulk the windows as well.
Filling them with caulk is a simple DIY job – here’s how to do it.
CHECK THE GUTTERS
If you have a backyard, go around and ensure that there are no water pools, which can transform into real problems if not eliminated. Don’t forget to clean the gutters. The autumn season brings loads of leaves that can get stuck in pipes and gutters, also on the rooftop.
Overflowing gutters can be a real nuisance as water infiltration can cause rapid home deterioration.
ENSURE YOUR HOUSE IS SAFE FROM THE RISK OF FIRE
The holiday season is a time associated with an increased risk of house fires. Indeed, official statistics show that the month of December, between 6pm and 8pm, is the peak time for house fires annually.
It’s sensible, then, to ensure your house is safe from the risk of fire during this busy period. Check out these key domestic fire safety checks for winter to help you do just that.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Each season comes with a set of challenges, and a sense of foresight is a smart move when looking forward (or perhaps dreading) the winter. With homes busier, heating more widely used, and the family cooking with more frequency, the holiday season usually places a higher burden on the home. Make sure yours is ready for it.