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December 21^st, the first day of Winter.  Time to start thinking about preparing your property for the Winter months.  We’ve had some frosts in Seattle so far, but I know many of you have had much colder weather.  Here are some tips to protect your home from the cold.

• If you haven’t had your furnace cleaned and tuned up, it is a good idea to do this. Also, remember to keep those filters clean and/or replaced and know where your space heater is if your heating system fails
• Check for drafty areas. Common places for air leaks are around door frames, windows and recessed lighting.  You may even want to hang heavier curtains for more insulation.
• Your attic should have 10-14 inches of insulation.
• To prevent ice and snow build-up makes sure your gutters and downspout are free of debris so water can drain. You may want to add extensions to the downspouts so they direct water 3-4 feet away from your foundation
• Assess nearby tree branches. Are some close enough to crack in a wind or snowstorm and fall on the house?
• Look around the perimeter of your home for holes or area where rodents can enter and block those entry points
• You can reverse your ceiling fans, so they push the warm air downwards
• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide monitors to make sure they are in good working order. Also, it is a good idea to have a fire extinguisher on each floor of the house
• Don’t wait to buy ice melt products. There is often a “run” on them after a prediction of sleet or snow.
• Do you have a generator? Make sure it has been serviced and is ready to go if the power goes out.
• Stock up on water and a few easy to prepare items, in case you are stuck in the house for a few days
• Cover your BBQ and patio furniture to protect them from the elements
• Clear your garden hoses of water and store them. Add the protective styrofoam covers to your outdoor faucets
• Lastly, know how to turn off the water in case your pipes burst.