The season may say “Fall” but it sure does feel like winter here in the hi-dez. News Director Jef Harmatz is here with ways for you to winterize your home.
With 30 degree swings from day to night and clear nights that are starting to dip into freezing temps. If the frigid temps are a shock to you – there are colder days and nights ahead, so now is the time to check over things in your home and car that could freeze in the cold desert nights.
Check exposed pipes inside and outside – especially faucets that are attached to the house. Turn off and drain outside spigots and hoses, and insulate any pipes or faucets that could potentially freeze and burst.
Swamp coolers have a water line fed to them – winterizing your unit by shutting off the feed line and covering the cooler to keep winds out.
If you are pulling out space heaters for the first time this season, make sure they are clean from dust, pet hair and debris – and give them lots of space when they are on.
Don’t forget about your car as well – if you haven’t checked the radiator fluid in a while or perhaps you’ve been topping it up with just water – make sure there is enough antifreeze in there to keep your engine from freezing up.
A burst pipe or leak when you are home is an inconvenience, but if it happens when you aren’t – it could mean catastrophic damage to your home. When traveling for the holidays, taking extra a little time to make sure your home is winter-ready will result in less surprises and a cozier cold season.
