The
weather is changing and it’s time to get your summer home into winter shape.
Whether you’re a snow bird
who is planning to head south for the winter or are closing up your summer
cabin on the lake, then you know that there is a fair amount of work to be done
before you leave your summer digs vacant for the next few months.
Not
sure how to best prepare your warm-weather home for the impending winter
season?
Check
out our list of suggestions:
1. Start with a list
Grab
a pen and paper or open a note-taking app on your phone and start a list! Making
a list is the best way to ensure you won’t forget anything. Walk around your
home, both inside and out, and take note of everything you need to do before
closing up for the summer.
2. Prep the kitchen
Clean
out the refrigerator and empty the pantry of food. Make sure to also put away
any items that could be a snack for bugs or vermin. This includes
things like soap, sponges and trash.
3. Shut off water
One
of the most important steps in winterizing your summer home is shutting off the
main
water line to your home. Turning off the water in your summer home will
help you avoid damage that could be caused from frozen pipes.
4. Unplug electrical
Did
you know that when electrical appliances are plugged in they continue to draw
power, even if they’re turned off? Save
yourself money and reduce the risk of fire by unplugging all electrical
appliances before heading out for the winter.
5. Cool it down
Because
no one will be living in your home, you don’t have to worry about keeping it a
comfortable temperature! Turn the thermostat down to save yourself money. Just
be sure to keep it above 55 degrees Fahrenheit to keep pipes from freezing up.
6. Fend off neighboring critters
Keep
small animals such as squirrels and birds from entering your home by sealing
your chimney. It also helps to do a once-over of your foundation and take
care of problem areas.
7. Clean, clean and clean some more
If
you’re planning to leave clothing or other cloth items such as bedding and
towels, make sure to wash them and store them in rodent-proof containers. Leave
drawers open to air out and wipe down all surfaces. This will make your return
to your summer home much more relaxing and enjoyable!
8. Check up on your home
It’s
always a good idea to keep an eye on your home, even when you’re not there. If
possible, ask a family member or trustworthy neighbor to occasionally check up
on your property. You may also consider investing in a home security system
that will allow you to use an app to keep an eye on your home.
Keep
your home protected year-round with a home insurance policy. Contact an agent
today to learn more about home insurance options.
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