It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Even if you’re not a huge fan of the cold, winters here in Colorado are simply stunning; however, they tend to be rough on homes when you’re not prepared for the sudden drops in temperature. As we enter the holiday season, it’s important to remember to prep your home for winter weather in addition to hanging up your holiday décor. So what winter weather tips should tenants tick off their lists this year?
Winter Weather Tips for Tenants:
Home Exteriors
Cold weather here in Colorado can creep up at a moment’s notice, so it’s important to make sure the exterior of your home is ready well in advance. Make sure your sprinklers have been winterized. Even if temperatures rise (because we all know they do!), it’s important not to turn sprinklers back on after they’ve been blown out. Doing so can cause pipes to crack and burst when temps drop again and requires a sprinkler technician to come out once again to complete the job all over again. The same goes for hose bibs. Be sure to disconnect all hoses from exterior spigots, as this can cause pipes to freeze as well. If possible, turn off the water to the exterior of the home altogether.
Turn Up the Heat!
Colorado weather is a fickle thing. Days can be warmer even during the Fall and Winter months, while nights can drop below freezing. It can be nice and sunny one day, then snowing the next. For these very reasons, it’s extremely important to keep your thermostat set at 68 degrees or above, even when you’re away. This helps to prevent pipes freezing inside the home. And in the event your furnace won’t kick on or isn’t maintaining heat properly, be sure to contact your landlord or property manager immediately to have it repaired.
Space Heater Safety
Space heaters are a great tool, especially for those who are always cold! That being said, it’s important to be cognizant of when and where you’re using them. Never leave space heaters unattended, as they can easily overheat or start fires. Use them wisely!
Fireplace Safety
A cozy fire is always welcome during the chillier months. Make sure yours is clean and ready to go prior to use. Contact your landlord or property manager to have a professional inspect and clean your chimney annually. And most importantly, never leave your fireplace burning unattended to prevent accidental fires. Finally, make sure your smoke and CO alarms are also working properly.
Ceiling Fans For Warmth?
Believe it or not, ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. Setting your ceiling fans to run on low in reverse (or clockwise when looking up at them) helps to circulate warm air, making your home feel warmer without overworking your furnace.
Shovels Ready!
If you’re responsible for snow removal at the home you’re renting, make sure to have your snow shovel, salt bags, or snow blowers at the ready. Make sure to clear all paths, walkways, and driveways of both snow and ice to prevent accidental injury for you, your guests, and anyone else coming to your home.
Other Smart Winter Tips
Once you’ve made sure your home is ready for the winter months ahead, it pays to make sure you, your car, and your possessions are prepared, too! If you have a green thumb, be sure to bring any potted plants inside for the colder season. Make sure your car is ready for the snowy roads ahead with proper tires, snow scrapers, and emergency gear (blankets, salt or kitty litter, flashlights, non-perishable foods and water, etc) in the event an accident occurs. Bring in or cover any patio furniture to safeguard them, and make sure your lights are working properly, both home and holiday lights!
Winters can be magical, but they can also wreak havoc on those who aren’t prepared. Make sure to take the extra time to safeguard your home, your possessions, and yourself.
