This handy checklist will keep your house safe in cold weather.
Protect your pipes
Disconnect all of your outside hoses and ensure they are drained completely to avoid damage (splits).
Locate the interior shut off valve to the outside faucets. The valve is usually found in a location closest to the outside tap in the basement. Shut off the valve. The inside portion of the pipes must be drained and left open. Older valves may need to be replaced to facilitate ease of use.
Drain all of your outside faucets by opening the faucets. Double check that they drain completely and leave them open for the winter.
Purge the water from your sprinkler system lines.
If you have been experiencing any issues with your well pump, now is the time to have it looked at rather than wait until the middle of the winter.
Stay warm
Check your furnace filter and replace or wash if it’s the permanent variety. Filters should be changed every 2 to 3 months, if you have pets or are in a dusty area, you may need to do this more frequently.
Service your furnace to ensure optimal operation, to save money on your winter heating bills and to identify problems before the cold weather arrives.
Have the efficiency rating of your furnace or boiler performed. This test is done by a HVAC professional to ensure correct set up and overall efficiency.
Be proactive
Drain your hot water tank once a year to remove sediment. You will extend the life of the hot water tank and save energy dollars as it will operate more efficiently. This step is especially important if you have minerals and sediment in your water. A licensed plumber can walk you through the required steps.
Test your sump pump – Ensure that it is operating effectively – you may wish to install a back-up sump pump in case the main pump fails. Call a professional to ensure that it is installed properly.
STADTKE PLUMBING AND HEATING LTD. is locally owned and operated by the Stadtke family. Brian and Jennifer have been proudly serving Cobourg, Port Hope and the County of Northumberland for over twenty years. The Stadtke family ardently supports the Northumberland YMCA Strong Kids Campaign, the Northumberland United Way, Northumberland Services for Women and many other community causes. By choosing Stadtke Plumbing & Heating Ltd. for your next plumbing and heating project, you are enabling us to give back to our community, making it a better place to live for all.
For fast, reliable and efficient service that you can count on visit stadtkeplumbingheating.com or call 905-342-2111 or Toll Free 1-888-223-7708.
