Winter Maintenance Tips for New Construction Homes by Chafin Communities

Although the South typically has mild winters, recent events have shown that even Georgia can experience extreme cold temperatures. With Georgia’s sometimes unpredictable weather, it is best to be prepared for whatever comes your way. Here are some winter maintenance tips for your home this chilly season: 

Use Fans to your Advantage 

You may think it is absurd to use ceiling fans when trying to heat your home. However, changing the direction of your fan’s blade rotation can save you money on energy and heating expenses. In the winter, your fan should be rotating clockwise. As heat naturally rises, this clockwise rotation will help redistribute the heat, creating a more consistent, comfortable temperature throughout the room.  Depending on your fan model, you can change the direction by either locating the direction switch on the fan’s motor or reversing the direction on your fan’s remote control. 

Maintaining Temperature

We understand that you may not always be home, whether it be due to long working hours or winter vacations. It is important to keep in mind that even if you are out of the house, the inside temperature should be kept at a minimum of 65 degrees. Letting your home get too cold puts your plumbing at risk, as pipes inside the walls can freeze and burst. If you will be gone for an extended period, you might want to ask a trusted neighbor or a friend to keep an eye out on your home because if a pipe were to burst, you would want to react quickly. The last thing you want is to return home to a flooding disaster! 

Prevent the Freeze

When it comes to keeping the cold at bay, prioritizing the pipes is crucial. Burst pipes can be a winter nightmare, and we want to take every precaution to prepare and avoid that headache. If there is an anticipated extreme temperature drop, it is recommended to let water drip and keep cabinet doors open to warm the pipes. Additionally, don’t forget to disconnect exterior hoses, such as garden hoses, as water left in these hoses can freeze, causing damage to both the hose and the outdoor faucet. To go the extra mile, you might want to invest in pipe insulation for extra protection.

Keep the Warmth In During Winter

During the cooler seasons, a common goal is to decrease the cost of heating your home. Insulation is a valuable tool used to retain heat in your home, allowing you to minimize heat loss and ultimately save money on heating costs. It is advisable to inspect your home’s insulation annually and make any needed repairs for optimal performance. Pay special attention to attics, basements, and crawl spaces, as these areas are more prone to temperature fluctuations. If you notice any gaps, cracks, or missing insulation, it is advisable to take care of them before the cold weather moves in. 

Prevent Ice Dams

When gutters are filled with leaves and debris, they can’t properly channel water away from the roof, which can lead to water backup and even the formation of ice dams. Ice dams can cause roof leaks and structural damage, which can result in expensive repairs. Take the time to clear your gutters and downspouts to ensure they are functioning properly. This simple task can help protect your home from water damage down the road. 

Safety First 

Cozying up by the fire is one of the simple pleasures of winter, but safety should always come first. Make sure to have your fireplace and chimney professionally cleaned and inspected at least once a year. Creosote buildup is a common cause of chimney fires, and a thorough cleaning can prevent dangerous situations. A clean chimney ensures that smoke and gases safely exit your home, giving you peace of mind as you enjoy your winter nights by the fire. 

Seal Windows and Doors 

One often-overlooked way to improve your home’s efficiency during winter is to seal any drafts around windows and doors. Cold air can sneak in through even the smallest gaps, making your heating system work harder and driving up energy costs. Check for gaps or leaks around frames and apply weather-stripping or caulk where necessary. This small investment can make a big difference in maintaining a comfortable temperature and saving on heating expenses.

By incorporating these winter maintenance tips into your routine, you can help keep your new construction home warm, safe, and efficient throughout the season. Taking the time now to make these small but impactful improvements will not only help you stay cozy but also save you money on heating costs and prevent costly repairs down the road. 

Stay warm, safe, and comfortable all year long! Read more about winter maintenance: Essential Tips for Preparing Your Yard This Winter