Winters in New Hampshire are no laughing matter. The temperatures remain between 14 and 36 degrees from December to February, and snowfall averages rank top three in the nation. While these conditions create the perfect environment for the holidays, school closings, and winter sports, staying safe and warm indoors remains a constant challenge for residents. Luckily, there are steps you can take to prepare for yet another harsh winter.
Check Your HVAC System
You’ll need an efficient HVAC system to keep you warm this winter. Before cranking up the temperature, evaluate your unit to ensure it’s in working order. Change the filters to improve the indoor air quality and reduce the risk of a house fire. Hire a contractor to clean the ventilation system and repair any mechanical issues.
Roof And Chimney Maintenance
The harsh winter is sure to put a beating on your roof and chimney. The weight of the heavy snow and the large amounts of water from winter storms can cause substantial damage. As you might imagine, a damaged roof can quickly lead to leaks, efficiency problems, and mold growth. Make your home safe and efficient this winter by hiring a contractor to inspect and repair your roof and chimney.
Seal Cracks
All it takes is a small hole or crack for cold air to enter your home, causing you to crank up the heat. Of course, the higher the thermostat, the more your energy bill costs. Save money and keep warm this winter by sealing cracks. You can generally find cracks around windows, doors, and other entry points. Use caulk, weatherstrips, or steel wool to fill the holes.
Inspect Your Plumbing
The constant freezing and heating of plumbing fixtures can cause unnecessary pressure, leading to cracks, leaks, and other problems. Prevent the headache in advance by inspecting your plumbing system. If you notice any leaks or cracks, repair them immediately. Lastly, insulate your pipes properly to prevent freezing.
Winterize Your Pool
Chances are you won’t be using your outdoor swimming pool during a New Hampshire winter. Therefore, you should complete a few winterization tasks to preserve your pool throughout the colder months. Winterizing includes cleaning, adding winterizing chemicals, lowering the water level, draining the pump and filter, blowing out water lines, and covering the pool.
Tend To Your Landscaping
While it would be nice to take a break from home improvement tasks like yard work during the winter, it’s not ideal. The snow, wind, and ice can cause trees to tip over, while a cracked and icy sidewalk can cause someone to get seriously injured. Although you may not have to cut the grass for a while, you should complete tasks like trimming trees and repairing damaged walkways to keep everyone safe.
Install Outdoor Lighting
The sun sets earlier during winter, making it difficult to see. The last thing you want is for someone you love to get hurt. Adding outdoor lighting to your home’s exterior can make a big difference. Motion-sensor lights are ideal for added security as they go off and on anytime movement is detected near the premises.
Of course, you can also add aesthetic appeal by installing walkway, wall, ceiling, and landscaping lights to the mix. If you truly want to give passersby something to look at, consider adding Christmas lights with remote-controlled color-changing features.
Stock Up On Emergency Supplies
When reports of a major storm hit the airwaves, finding the things you need is nearly impossible. Save yourself the hassle by stocking up on essential items before the weather gets bad. While your list of necessities will vary, some suggestions include a first aid kit, candles, batteries, generators, canned goods, ready-to-eat meals, non-perishable snacks, blankets, shovels, snow blowers, and salt.
Whether you’ve recently moved to New Hampshire or lived here all your life, enduring the winter months is quite challenging. As climate change and rising inflation rates cause another wave of pressure, residents are encouraged to prepare now. Use the above tips to ensure that your home and family are ready to handle whatever this year’s winter season has in store.
