According to the Farmers’ Almanac, Maryland (and most of the country) could be in for a rough winter.
During the second half of 2023, there are “indications that an El Nino will be brewing” — which would mean colder temperatures, snow, ice, and sleet.
So we’ve compiled a list of things to do to get ready for winter, inside and out.
Inside your home:
- Reverse your ceiling fans (they should go clockwise to push heated air down from the ceiling)
- Insulate your indoor pipes.
- Insulate attic/crawl space.
- Have the chimney/fireplace/furnace/heating equipment serviced and inspected.
- Put away window screens and install storm windows.
- Caulk your windows and doors.
- Prevent door locks from freezing (you can lubricate them once a year).
- Cover your water heater (insulation blanket).
- Change the batteries and test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Outside your home:
- Bring in your outdoor plants, furniture, and grill.
- Inspect your roof and repair loose roofing shingles.
- Clean/inspect the gutters.
- Repair patios and pavers.
- Protect your wood deck.
- Check for dead tree limbs.
- Turn off exterior faucets, disconnect hoses, drain your sprinkler system, check outdoor water sources, and divert them away from your home.
- Mark your garden beds, paths, and driveways (so you know where everything is under the snow).
- Mulch your leaves when you mow.
- Clean and stow your lawnmower.
- Check your snowblower.
- Winterize your sump pump.
BONUS TIP: The sooner you handle these tasks, the less chance you have of being the 137th person to call your repair person on a freezing cold day!