As autumn temperatures begin to drop across New Jersey, seniors should start preparing their homes for the harsh winter months ahead. Taking proactive steps now can prevent costly emergencies and ensure comfort throughout the cold season.
Heating System Maintenance
Schedule a professional inspection of your heating system before the first freeze. Replace furnace filters, which should be changed every three months during heavy use periods. Clean vents and registers throughout your home to ensure proper airflow. For homes with fireplaces, have the chimney cleaned and inspected to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
Weatherproofing and Insulation
Check windows and doors for drafts by holding a lit candle near the frames – flickering indicates air leaks. Apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps, which can reduce heating bills by up to 20 percent. Inspect attic insulation and add more if needed, as proper insulation keeps warm air inside where it belongs.
Plumbing Protection
Frozen pipes can burst and cause thousands of dollars in damage. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, then shut off exterior water valves. Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages using foam pipe insulation. Keep cabinet doors under sinks open during extreme cold to allow warm air circulation around plumbing.
Emergency Preparedness
Winter storms can cause power outages lasting several days. Stock up on flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for weather updates. Consider purchasing a generator, but never operate it indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.
Safety Considerations
Install or test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries if needed. Keep snow shovels, ice melt, and sand readily accessible. For seniors with mobility concerns, arrange for reliable snow removal services before the first snowfall.
Professional Help
Don’t hesitate to hire professionals for tasks like gutter cleaning, roof inspections, or tree trimming near power lines. Many local contractors offer senior discounts for winterization services.
Taking these steps now will help ensure your home remains safe, warm, and comfortable throughout New Jersey’s unpredictable winter weather. Start with the most critical tasks like heating system maintenance, then work through the checklist methodically.