These are suggestions which we don’t require of our owners. Just to use as a guideline for winterizing your home.
Outside Duties
-
Clean and store boats, dock ornaments, ladder, life jackets and ski equipment.
-
Mow the lawn one last time (if you have a lawn at your place).
-
Clean and winterize lawn mower and other gas-powered yard equipment.
-
Rake and remove leaves within at least 30 feet from your home.
-
Store fire pit decorations, emptied flower pots, drained hoses and sprinklers, and deflated water toys.
-
Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, pipes, windows and doors; then seal leaks with caulk or insulation to keep out cold air and pests.
-
Insulate pipes in crawl spaces by wrapping them with heat tape or thermostatically- controlled heat cables; also open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.
-
Clean out gutters, and inspect roof for shingles that are raised or cracked; leaking roofs and clogged gutters can lead to significant water damage.
-
Store outdoor furniture, picnic tables and hammocks.
-
Cover hose bib with insulated cover.
-
If you have an irrigation system, have it drained and shut-down.
-
Locate and inform property management where main water-shut off is, this is usually in the yard or located by driveway.
Inside Duties
-
Ensure your water shut off works and instructions
-
Set thermostat at the appropriate temperature for the region. If you heat your place in the winter, set the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees.
-
Clean furnace filter to maintain an efficient heating and cooling system and reduce the risk of fire.
Unplug computers and appliances that will not be used in the winter. -
Pull shades, or cover furniture to keep it from being bleached by the sun.
-
Put mothballs or dryer sheets near linens.
-
Restock and store first-aid kit.
-
Take out all perishable foods. Try to reduce any issues with bears by not keeping food in the house.
-
Check the hot water heater, make sure it’s set up for the winter.
-
Close damper for fireplace.