5 Ways to Prepare Your Home for a Texas Winter

Winter could end up being a tough season in Texas, with temperature going as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit depending on what part of the second-largest state in the country you live in. Average snowfall is only 1 inch, but it can reach heights of 17 inches in the western parts of the state. Therefore, it is important to prepare your home for the coming winter to be able to enjoy the snow outside and escape the cold inside. Before the start of the winter season, here are 5 things you should check on at home:

Furnace

A furnace is one of the main things that heats an entire house. Every screw, ductwork, joint, etc. should be checked before using a furnace since these items can come loose due to air vibrations. Another part of the furnace that is often overlooked is the air filter. A furnace can be forgotten until it is needed, but this could end up causing the air filter to become clogged, dusty and dirty. A furnace that is underprepared can end up making the house feel uncomfortable once winter begins. Replacing your air filter and checking if everything is in place should be done before winter in order to help your house stay warm.

Heated Water Tanks

People like to take hot baths and showers when it is cold outside, but in order to do this, you need to make sure that your water heater is working well. There are different types of water heating systems, such as tanks that keep the water at a high temperature all day and night until you need to use them. These should be flushed twice a year in order to clean them out and preferably flushed before winter begins so that they are ready to be used. However, there is another way to get heated water by using a tankless water heater, which only heats up the water when you need it to. Tankless water heaters are able to save you money and energy, as well as shut down when not in use after winter is over.

Gutters

Gutters are designed to run water off your roof, but they can get clogged up. This can cause an issue if water overflows and runs down the sides of your walls. Water could also end up inside the wall, which can lead to expensive water damage. Plus, if gutters are blocked and the weather gets very cold, water will turn into ice and add weight to the gutters, which could cause them to tear away from the house.

Windows

There can be gaps between the actual window and the frame, which can let hot air escape while creating a tiny, unnecessary breeze in your house. These gaps should be found and sealed up with silicon for a quick fix. You can also glaze if you notice the gaps in the spring so that they have time to settle. Another thing you should check on that not only applies to windows but doors as well is the weather stripping. This goes on the edge and top to keep doors and windows in place so that they do not knock and rattle while closed. The stripping can get worn out over time and should be replaced if needed.

Walls

Cold air can get trapped inside your walls causing condensation that can result in black mold. However, this can be fixed by sealing the gap where the cold air came through. Speak to an expert to get more information and find out the best way to go about fixing this issue.

These five tips should help prepare your home for a cold winter and can save you time and money if you take care of them before the season starts. After a long day in the snow, it will be nice to come home to a warm house.

Photo by AgriLife Today from Flickr Creative Commons.