As we head into December, the colder weather brings the need for extra care when it comes to home maintenance. Not only will this help keep your home warm and cozy during the winter months, but it can also prevent costly repairs and keep your appliances running smoothly. From checking water-connected appliances to testing electrical outlets, taking a few simple steps now can save you a lot of headaches later. Here’s a checklist of essential home maintenance tasks for December—along with some bonus tips to further improve your home’s efficiency and safety.
1. Check Water-Connected Appliances
Water-connected appliances like your dishwasher, washing machine, and refrigerator are essential, but they’re also prone to leaks and damage over time. The hoses connected to these appliances can weaken, crack, or get clogged, which can result in water damage if not properly maintained.
What to Do:
- Inspect Hoses: Check the hoses for any cracks, leaks, or bulges. Look for any kinks that could restrict water flow.
- Replace Damaged Hoses: If you find any damage, replace the hoses as soon as possible. Turn off the water and power to the appliance before making any repairs to avoid the risk of shock or flooding.
- Check for Leaks: Run the appliances briefly to ensure there are no leaks that could cause water damage.
Bonus Tip: If your hoses are difficult to access, consider using braided steel hoses, which are more durable and resistant to wear and tear.
2. Prevent Ice Dams on Your Roof
Ice dams can be a major issue in colder climates, especially during winter. They form when snow melts on your roof and refreezes in your gutters or along the edges of your roof, potentially causing water damage and even roof leaks.
What to Do:
- Clear Your Gutters: Make sure gutters are free of leaves and debris, which can block water flow.
- Check Downspouts: Ensure your downspouts are clear so melted water can flow freely.
- Consider Heated Cables: If you live in an area with very cold temperatures, consider installing heated cables along the edges of your roof to help prevent ice buildup.
Bonus Tip: If ice dams are a recurring issue, installing attic or roof vents can help regulate the temperature on your roof and prevent ice from forming in the first place.
3. Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly problems homeowners face in winter. If your pipes are located in unheated areas like crawl spaces, basements, or under sinks, they are more vulnerable to freezing and bursting when the temperature drops.
What to Do:
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam pipe insulation to protect exposed pipes. These are easy to install and can prevent freezing during extreme temperatures.
- Focus on Vulnerable Areas: Pay special attention to areas like under-sink pipes and pipes running through unheated spaces.
Bonus Tip: If you’re expecting a severe cold snap, leave your faucets dripping slightly to help prevent pipes from freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water.
4. Test Your Electrical Outlets
With December often bringing an increase in holiday lights and decorations, it’s the perfect time to check the functionality of your home’s electrical outlets. Faulty outlets can be a fire hazard, especially if you’re plugging in multiple devices or lights.
What to Do:
- Test Standard Outlets: Plug in a lamp or any device that you know works to check if the outlet is functioning correctly.
- Test GFCI Outlets: Use the “test” button on GFCI outlets to ensure they trip when pushed. Reset them afterward to make sure they return to normal working conditions.
- Install Safety Covers: If you have young children in the home, add outlet safety covers to prevent electrical hazards.
Bonus Tip: If you’re hanging a lot of lights or using multiple electrical devices, consider using a surge protector to avoid overloading your outlets and reduce the risk of electrical fires.
5. Check Your Heating System
As the weather gets colder, ensuring your heating system is running efficiently becomes essential. A well-maintained heating system keeps your home warm and can also prevent expensive breakdowns in the middle of winter.
What to Do:
- Replace Furnace Filters: If you haven’t done so already, replace your furnace filters. Clogged filters restrict airflow, which can cause your heating system to work harder and become less efficient.
- Test Thermostat: Check that your thermostat is working properly by adjusting it and observing if your heater responds as expected. If it seems inaccurate, recalibrate or replace the thermostat.
- Schedule a Professional Inspection: If you haven’t had your heating system inspected yet, now is the time to schedule a professional checkup. A technician can identify potential issues and ensure everything is running smoothly before the coldest months.
Bonus Tip: Close any vents in rooms you don’t use often to direct more heat to the rooms you spend the most time in.
6. Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors
Cold drafts are one of the easiest ways for heat to escape your home, leading to higher energy bills. Sealing gaps around windows and doors can keep warm air inside and cold air outside.
What to Do:
- Inspect Windows and Doors: Look for any visible gaps, cracks, or worn-out weatherstripping around your windows and doors.
- Seal Gaps: Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these gaps and prevent drafts from sneaking in. For larger gaps, consider using draft stoppers or door sweeps.
Bonus Tip: Consider using thermal curtains or blinds to keep extra heat in. These can also add a cozy, festive touch to your holiday decor.
7. Check Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Winter is a time when we tend to use more appliances, like space heaters, fireplaces, and ovens. With increased use of these devices, it’s important to ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly.
What to Do:
- Test Your Detectors: Press the test button on both your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working.
- Change the Batteries: If you haven’t replaced the batteries recently, now is the time to do it. Low battery power is a common reason for alarms to fail.
Bonus Tip: Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and near any heat-producing devices, such as the fireplace or space heater.
8. Prepare for Winter Storms
Winter storms can cause power outages, damage to your home, and even leave you stuck indoors for days. Taking steps now can help you stay safe and comfortable if a storm hits.
What to Do:
- Stock Up on Essentials: Make sure you have enough bottled water, non-perishable food, and blankets to last a few days if needed.
- Have a Power Backup Plan: If you live in an area prone to power outages, consider investing in a generator or ensuring you have backup power for essential devices like your phone or heater.
Bonus Tip: Keep a small emergency kit in your car, including blankets, snacks, water, and a flashlight in case you’re stranded during a winter storm.
December is the perfect time to take care of essential home maintenance tasks before the cold weather takes full hold. By inspecting appliances, protecting your pipes, sealing drafts, and preparing your heating system, you can ensure that your home remains safe, comfortable, and efficient throughout the winter months. These simple steps will not only save you money on repairs but also help conserve energy and water.
