Habitat Home’s Home Tips: Winter Maintenance
By: Sebastian Aguilar
The last winter storm that hit Texas devastated lots of families, but this time we will be prepared. Make sure your home is nice and cozy with this Habitat winter maintenance checklist:
Give your heating system a check-up
The first task is verifying your heating system is working properly and efficiently. PVC vent pipes, boiler systems, or gas heating systems should be checked and cleaned. Having your heating systems run efficiently will save you money and prevent discomfort during the harsh winter.
Cover exterior piping
It may not seem like an issue, but not covering exterior pipes like hose spigots can freeze and create leaks or even busted pipes! In order to combat these costly leaks, the best thing you can do is wrap the exterior piping with insulated material or even a towel. The key is to ensure these pipes stay warm so you will not have a mess after winter!
Check emergency supplies
Over 4.5 million Texans lost power in 2021 due to the winter storm. Here are some emergency supplies you should consider just in case you might need them:
- Water (One gallon per person)
- Non-Perishable Food
- Flashlight
- A Generator
- First Aid Kit
- Essential Medications
- Pet Supplies
- Gasoline
In the event of a power outage or other effects of severe weather, these supplies will help assist you and your family. It is also important to plan! Talk to your family and create a plan to make sure everyone is on the same page and ready to take appropriate action to stay comfortable.
Maintenance Manual
Our Habitat homeowners are provided with a maintenance manual in case they need to do home repairs. If you are a Habitat homeowner and have lost your manual, simply call our office to schedule a pickup!