Preparing Your Home For Winter

You came back?! Wow, I lost that bet - but glad you're here!

I was talking with Eric Johnsen of State Farm this morning over email, and he reminded me of the importance of getting a home ready for the coming winter. Thankfully, winters here in the New River Valley aren’t necessarily all that bad weather-wise, but it’s still important to keep some things in mind as cold weather approaches. Thanks, Eric, for providing the list below …

Woodstoves, Solid Fuel burners, and Chimneys:

Make sure proper clearances are observed. Unless a fireplace insert or manufacture’s specification indicated otherwise, wood stoves must be at least 36″ from a combustible wall (drywall with wood framing behind it), wood cabinets, or personal items.
Stoves should be listed by Underwriters Laboratories or other national testing firm.
Have your chimney inspected annually by a professional for any structural damage and cleaned as needed. On average, your chimney needs to be cleaned after every two cords of wood that are burned
Do not close dampers to prolong burning.
Burn fires hot to minimize creosote buildup. Creosote accumulates in stove pipes and chimneys and may ignite unless it is removed periodically. Creosote is mainly caused by:
- Slow smoldering (smoky) fires.
- Cool surfaces (such as exterior chimneys).
- Burning unseasoned (green) wood.
Install carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home as well as in sleeping areas.

Pipes:

Ensure all pipes are adequately insulated.
Keep a water faucet (faucet furthest from the water service) running slowly during periods of extreme cold weather.
Close all crawlspace vents to prevent heat from escaping.
Repair any broken or damaged basement doors and windows.
Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow heat to reach pipes.
Maintain thermostat to at least 68 degrees during winter months.
Disconnect any exterior hoses from the house during winter months.

Thanks Eric, for the tips!

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