Prepare Your Exterior for Winter
- Turn off exterior faucets and bibs to prevent havoc from a running garden faucet during the winter months.
HVAC and Air Quality
- Change the HVAC filters, test the systems, and ensure the indoor air quality is good for your tenants.
Air Conditioning Units
- Remove and drain window AC units, storing them properly until Spring arrives.
Safety First: Smoke Alarms and CO2 Detectors
- Test smoke alarms and CO2 detectors to mitigate risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and fires as tenants heat their homes.
Optimizing Heating Efficiency
- Reverse the direction of ceiling fans to push warm air down and improve heating efficiency.
- Maintain a minimum indoor temperature and remind tenants to keep their thermostats set to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Enhancing Insulation
- Add extra insulation to the attic if needed, aiming for 10 to 14 inches for optimal heat retention.
- Insulate exposed pipes, particularly along exterior walls, to prevent freezing.
Sealing and Insulation of Openings
- Assess and seal leaks in doors and windows to prevent drafts and energy loss.
Chimney Maintenance
- Hire a professional to clean the chimney and advise tenants on keeping the flue clean and closed when not in use.
Conclusion: The Benefits of Proactive Maintenance
Taking a proactive approach to seasonal maintenance saves money, time, and reduces stress. With these tips, both landlords and tenants can enjoy a warm and safe winter season.
Transcript ▼
Winter is coming. Prepare your rental for colder temperatures now. Turn off exterior faucets and hose bibs. A running garden faucet can wreak havoc during the winter. Change the HVAC filters. Test the systems and ensure the air quality is good. Remove window AC units. Drain these units as needed, and pack them up until spring. Test the smoke alarms and CO2 detectors.
With tenants turning up the heat to stay warm, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fires increases. Reverse the direction of your ceiling fan. Changing the direction of the ceiling fans creates a gentle updraft, which pushes warm air down into the room. Set the temperature and remind tenants not to let it dip below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Want to go above and beyond?
- Add extra insulation to the attic as needed.
- Make sure the attic has 10 to 14 inches of insulation for optimal heat retention.
- Insulate exposed pipes.
- Pipes along the exterior walls are at the biggest risk of freezing.
- Evaluate doors and windows, resealing as needed.
Look for leaks, especially around the frame. And clean the chimney. Hire a professional to clean out your flue. Then remind your tenant to keep the area clean and to close the flue when it’s not in use.
Taking a proactive approach to seasonal maintenance will save you money, time, and stress. With these tips, we hope you and your tenants stay warm through the winter.