Old Man Winter is making himself at home here in New York. Temperatures have dropped and it’s time to get cozy indoors. If you’re a New York homeowner, then you need to make sure you’re prepared for the coming weather. Winter storms and freezing temperatures can cause damage, leading to expensive repairs and high energy costs. Here are the tasks you need to complete in order to properly winterize your New York home.

Check for drafts

Did you just feel a cold draft? That means it’s time to check your home for air leaks. Drafts can make your home much less energy efficient and lead to higher heating costs. Check around windows and doors for any cold air that may be seeping through. These cracks can be sealed with caulk or weatherstripping. You can add an extra layer of protection around windows with insulation film. An inexpensive draft guard can also be used at the bottom of doors and windows to keep out the cold air. Buy one online or make it yourself!

Automate your temperature control

Cranking up the heat can certainly keep you toasty all winter. But it can also put a huge dent in your bank account — especially if you keep it at the same temperature all day. Adjust your thermostat so that your home is cooler while you are away and at night while you sleep. The easiest way to do this is to install a programmable thermostat. There are many types to choose from including smart thermostats that can be controlled from your phone. While you may pay a little more upfront for a programmable model, you’ll recoup that money on your energy costs over time.

Adjust the humidity

Winter air is typically drier than at other times of the year. Dry air can cause static electricity to build up and can also make you uncomfortable. As the days get colder, adjust the humidity levels in your home. Some furnaces allow you to adjust the humidity setting. Aim for a relative humidity between 30 and 50 percent. If you can’t change the humidity level on your furnace, then use a humidifier. To keep track of humidity levels in your home, invest in a simple and inexpensive hygrometer.

Prepare outdoor spaces

While not every New York homeowner has a yard to deal with, those that do should turn their attention to preparing outdoor spaces now that winter is here. If you haven’t cleaned leaves and debris out of your gutters, then it’s time to do it. These can block water flow which can prevent excess moisture from draining away from your house. Trim branches that hang over your roof as well as dead branches in trees. When brittle branches become heavy with ice, they can break and cause damage to your home, cars, or even passersby. In addition, store garden hoses for winter and turn off outdoor faucets to prevent your pipes from freezing.

Contact Keller New York today!

Are you ready to buy or sell a New York home? Then contact the Keller New York Bronx office at 718-697-6800 or the Eastchester – Scarsdale office at 914-713-3270 today. We hope you have a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year!