Winter Is Coming: Get Your Home Ready for Freezing Temperatures

Hello, home dwellers! Like they said for about six seasons of The Game of Thrones, “Winter is coming”, and while Central Texas may not face the same winter conditions as Westeros, it's crucial for you, and your home, to be prepared for freezing temperatures. So, let's dig into a few tips for getting ready for winter.

❄️ Protect Your Pipes: Prevent Freezing

Frozen pipes can be a hassle, so take steps to protect your plumbing during colder temperatures.

• Disconnect garden hoses and drain and cover outdoor faucets. Let me know if you’d like an outdoor faucet cover, compliments of me and The Mullens Group!

• Let faucets drip a bit during a cold front to keep water moving.

• Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas. 

• Know the location of your home's main water shut-off valve for emergencies and if you need a water shut-off curb key to turn the shut-off valve.

🪴 Protect Your Plants: Winter Greenery Care

While your yard might not be snowy, it's essential to protect plants from frost.

• Cover tender plants with frost cloths or blankets during freezing nights.

• Move potted plants to a sheltered area.

• Place mulch around the base of plants to help stabilize the soil and root temperature.

• Trim tree branches so they are less likely to break with the extra weight of ice and snow.

🧖 Furnace Maintenance: Keep Warm

Give your furnace some love before winter sets in to ensure it runs efficiently.

• Schedule a professional to inspect and service your furnace. Let me know if you’d like a list of local Austin professionals. 

• Change furnace filters regularly to maintain airflow.

• Check carbon monoxide detector batteries for safety.

🌡️ Programmable Thermostats: Efficient Heating

Save energy and keep your home at the right temperature with a programmable thermostat.

• Install a programmable thermostat and set it to lower temperatures when you're away or sleeping.

• Some smart thermostats allow remote temperature adjustments. We have a smart thermostat and security system at my home that we use all of the time. 

🐶 Pet Care: Keep Them Warm

Even pets with fur coats can get cold, so take steps to keep them warm during chilly days.

• Bring outdoor pets inside or provide a warm shelter.

• Ensure outdoor pets have access to unfrozen water and extra bedding and blankets.

🔦 Prepare for Power Outages: Extra Lighting

Be prepared for power outages with extra light sources.

• Keep flashlights and spare batteries on hand.

• Invest in battery-powered lanterns or LED candles.

• Consider a portable generator for essential appliances during an outage. Make sure you have the appropriate fuel for your generator and operate it safely. 

🔥 Fire Safety: Enjoy Safely

Fireplaces add warmth but use them safely.

• Have your fireplace and chimney cleaned and inspected. Again, let me know if you need a list of local providers!

• Use a fireplace screen to help contain sparks.

• Ensure smoke detectors are working and a fire extinguisher is available.

🥫 Stock Up on Supplies: Winter Essentials

Be prepared with essential supplies in case of a winter storm.

• Stock up on non-perishable food, bottled water, and pet food.

• Keep extra blankets, warm clothing, and a first aid kit ready.

• Have candles, matches, and a manual can opener in case of a power outage.

🚗 Winterize Your Wheels: Car Care

Don't forget to prepare your vehicle for colder temperatures.

• Check tire pressure and ensure proper inflation.

• Keep your gas tank at least half full during cold fronts to prevent gas line freeze-up.

• Have an emergency kit with essentials in your car.

Let me know if you have any other tips in the comments, stay warm, and enjoy the beauty of a Texas winter!