IS YOUR HOME READY FOR WINTER?
Lets face it, at Lake of the Ozarks we live for warm sunny days on the lake. And this time of year many take off south to find sun and warmth. Before you hunker down during the cold winter dreaming of boating days, ensure your home is prepared by following these few easy steps. MHQ Mortgage Headquarters cares about you, your family and home even after the loan is closed. Take the time and make sure you have done winter maintenance to your home.
By taking these few steps you are keeping your family safe, saving money & stress from unforeseen incidents, and lengthening the life of your home. As a leader in the industry, MHQ Mortgage Headquarters, wants to make sure your home takes care of you for as long as you choose to live there. If you have any questions about remodeling, refinancing or maybe its time for a new home, give our professionals a call to discuss your options.
- Cover outdoor air-conditioning units. Snow and ice can damage outdoor air-conditioning units if they aren't protected. Covers are available at most home improvement stores, but even a secured canvas tarp will do.
- Close foundation vents. Crawl space ventilation is good for your home during the spring, summer, and fall. However, during the winter months, closing the vents can help lower your heating costs.
- Check for drafts. Cold air slipping in around doors and windows can cause higher heating bills. Use this simple trick: light a stick of incense and slowly move it around the seams of doors and windows. When the smoke blows around instead of rising in a straight line, you've got a draft. Many gaps can be eliminated by applying a little caulk.
- Test your sump pump. If you have a basement sump pump, make sure the switch is on and pour a little water in the crock to ensure it starts. Many basement leaks occur during upcoming spring thaws, so check it now to be safe. Check the backup battery, too. Review more information on sump pumps from the North Dakota State University Extension Office.
- Check your heating system. Many of us use an app to control the temperature, setting up routine temperature changes ensures you don’t forget and keeps the heating bill lower.
- Schedule chimney cleaning. If you have a chimney make sure you have had it clean before you light up that cozy fire.
- Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors. Perfect time to change the batteries and give them a test to make sure they are still in good working order.
- Maintain the trees on your property. Not only wind, but the weight of snow and ice can take down the biggest of trees and branches.
- Reverse ceiling fan blades. Heat rises so you want to make sure your ceiling fans are working for you and drawing the heat down.
- Stock up on emergency and snowed in days supplies. When it snows it is always best to stay home and let the professionals take care of the roads. Stock up on your favorite snacks, candles, matches, flashlights and more.
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