Sangamon Sun

Homeowners in Illinois face the challenge of preparing for winter's unpredictable weather. The state's climate encompasses all four seasons, and winter can bring severe conditions such as freezing temperatures and ice, posing risks to homes.

Preparing a home for winter may seem daunting, but several straightforward steps can be taken during weekends or spare time. Water damage from frozen and burst pipes is a common issue leading to insurance claims. Homeowners are advised to wrap pipes and maintain indoor temperatures at 65 degrees or higher. Knowing the location of the water shutoff valve is crucial for emergencies.

Several tips are suggested for getting homes ready for winter in Illinois:

- Ensure ceiling fans rotate clockwise to distribute warm air.

- Protect indoor pipes, especially in basements where many burst pipes occur.

- Insulate attics or crawl spaces.

- Service furnaces and chimneys annually.

- Remove window screens and install storm windows.

- Repair loose roofing shingles to prevent leaks from heavy snow.

- Clean gutters and inspect them regularly.

- Secure outdoor water sources by draining garden hoses before frost arrives.

Additional measures include marking paths for snow shoveling, re-caulking windows and doors, checking insurance coverage, preventing door locks from freezing with graphite lubricant, tidying gardens, mulching flower beds, maintaining decks, ensuring snowblowers function properly, bringing in outdoor items like plants and furniture, covering water heaters with insulation blankets, installing programmable thermostats, and testing smoke detectors.

These steps not only prepare homes for harsh weather but also help manage energy usage during colder months when heating costs typically rise due to increased time spent indoors.