It hasn’t felt much like a Wisconsin winter, but colder temperatures and snow are soon to be on their way! Ensure your home is ready for winter by following our seasonal maintenance tips below.

And, don’t forget to send us your best seasonal photo for our winter photo contest! Submit your photo(s) on our Facebook page or send us an email at hello@veridianhomes.com for a chance to win $100! All entries must be submitted by February 28, 2020. 

INTERIOR WINTER MAINTENANCE TIPS

  • Monitor the relative humidity in your home with a hygrometer; you should maintain 35 to 40 percent. This can be controlled by using your exhaust fans, air conditioning and dehumidifier.
  • Condensation on glass, mainly during the winter months, leads to deterioration of the window and the opening surrounding it. To minimize condensation problems, use your kitchen, bath or furnace fans to reduce your home’s relative humidity. Keep enough space behind your drapes, so air can circulate. If you have blinds, it is important to keep them raised if you notice condensation.
  • Install a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture in the basement.
  • Inspect all air intake and exhaust ports. Keep them clear of any obstructions such as overgrown shrubbery and snow.
  • Inspect and change your furnace filter per manufacturer recommendations.
  • Change or clean your range hood filter to avoid grease and food accumulation.
  • Check the PVC ring under your sinks. This ring is located directly above the PVC trap. Verify that these round rings are hand tight so that water will not leak.
  • Inspect and change batteries, in your thermostat.
  • To minimize the potential for a frozen plumbing line/pipe in severe weather conditions, do not lower the heat to less than 55 degrees. Leave cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate. In the event of a power outage, leave faucets on slightly so water can run slowly. If frozen pipes occur, contact a plumber.
  • Clean lint from clothes dryer exhaust pipe.

Energy Saving Tip: Save energy this winter by setting back the temperature on your thermostat when you’re asleep or not at home. For every degree you lower the temperature over a selected period, the more you can save on your heating bill.

EXTERIOR WINTER MAINTENANCE TIPS

  • Check gutters and roof for excessive ice/snow build up. Ice damming can cause roof leaks and may result in drywall/insulation damage. Remove ice/snow with a broom/snow rake.
  • Do not use salt or ice removers on concrete; they will cause pitting and/or spalling. We recommend using sand for traction.
  • Keep your exterior lights on for safety during the evening.
  • Inspect all air intake and exhaust ports.  Keep them clear of any obstructions such as overgrown shrubbery and snow.
  • Lube overhead garage door and track.

Note: If you do not feel confident in any of these duties, please be sure to contact a professional.