5 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Washington Storms

Keep Your Family Warm & Protected This Winter 

There’s a chill across Greater Puget Sound, and sweater weather has arrived. Winter has its charm—we love hot cocoa and twinkly lights as much as the next person. But wind and heavy rain can also wreak havoc on homes that aren’t prepared for the cold and snow. 

Is your home ready for the season? As a full service HVAC heating service provider in business in the Greater Puget Sound since 1957, we’ve seen our fair share of homes that weren’t ready for the cold.

Read on to learn how Washington winter storm preparedness can save your family from discomfort—and in some cases, disaster. 

SEE ALSO: Keep Your Family Warm This Winter with a Smart Thermostat

1. Seal Your Windows 

If warm air constantly escapes through cracks around windows, your heating system will have to work extra hard to replenish heat. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it could also increase your energy bills. So, this winter, be sure to seal cracks around all windows and door frames. A good rule of thumb is that if the gap is wider than the width of a nickel, it should be filled in. 

2. Inspect the Roof 

A leak in the ceiling may seem like a random misfortune—but it’s less likely if you’re proactive about your roof maintenance. Have a roofer inspect your roof this winter to identify any damaged shingles or opportunities for improvement. A handyman can also repair a few shingles for you. As it rains and snow melts, you’ll be thankful that water stays outside and not inside of your home. 

3. Schedule a Furnace Check-Up

When it’s freezing outside, the last thing you want is a furnace that keeps shutting off or won’t work properly. If your furnace is cycling on and off too frequently, there could be a buildup of debris or dust that’s clogging air filters or air supply vents. Low airflow may shut off your furnace, quickly turning your house cold.

When you think ahead and schedule an annual maintenance checkup ahead of the cold weather season, you can rest assured knowing that your furnace should be equipped for Washington storms, keeping your family comfortable when you need it most. Staying on top of furnace maintenance appointments prevents the need for emergency service when many others are also in need. 

4. Turn Off Exterior Faucets 

In freezing conditions, undrained water can freeze and cause pipes to burst as ice expands. So, before the weather gets too cold, disconnect your garden hoses, drain the remaining water, and be sure to turn off the shut-off valve at your home. 

5. Have Your Chimney Cleaned 

Is there anything cozier than gathering around the fire with loved ones? If you have a fireplace, it’s important to have it inspected every season before using it. Even if wood is not your main heating source, creosote builds up when you burn wood. Creosote can be cancerous, is highly flammable, and can cause chimney fires. 

So, make sure your chimney is swept this winter. And if you’d like to take extra precautions, consider installing a steel liner, which will protect your home from potential chimney fires. 

Need Heating Services in Western Washington? 

Bob’s Heating has been helping families stay safe and warm since 1957. Contact us to schedule a furnace inspection soon!