As the temperatures drop in Athens, it's crucial to give your home a little T.L.C. to prevent costly repairs later. Here is our essential checklist for January.
1. Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are the #1 cause of winter water damage. When the forecast dips below freezing:
- Disconnect all garden hoses.
- Cover outdoor faucets with foam covers.
- Let indoor faucets drip slightly during extreme cold snaps.
2. Check Your Heating System
Before the coldest nights hit, change your HVAC filters. A clogged filter makes your system work harder, raising your bill and increasing the risk of failure.
3. Smart Home Winterization
If you have a smart thermostat (like Nest or Ecobee), make sure 'Eco Mode' isn't set too low. We recommend keeping the house at least 60°F even when you are away to protect pipes and finishes/flooring.
"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—especially when it comes to water damage."
4. Inspect the Roof
From the ground (use binoculars!), look for any loose or missing shingles. Winter winds can turn a small flap into a major leak.