Winter Problems & Preventative Maintenance: Part 5
Welcome back to the final part of winter maintenance and preventative options that help you save you energy, money and time. In case you missed Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, or Part 4, check them out. Don’t forget to visit HomeFaxInspect.com to see our new complete Home Inspection Kits and NationwideHomeFax.com when you’re done.
Restock Winter Essentials
In case you haven’t done so already, don’t’ wait for the next big winter storm to restock cold-weather essentials, such as rock salt, ice melt, extra food, and extra supplies. If you don’t have a snow blower or can’t afford to purchase one, make sure to have a good quality shovel and supplies for when the winter storms hit. If you need a snow blower but don’t want to purchase it new, check your local flea market, pawn shop, or small engine/maintenance company in your neighborhood. Chances are you’ll find one at a discount and save yourself time if you live in a region with a large amount of annual snowfall.
Chimney Sweep
Before using your wood burning fireplace, or any other gas, oil, wood, coal or other heat source, be sure your chimney, fireplace vents, and flue are clean and in good condition (and open). Without proper maintenance, you increase the risk of chimney fires and carbon monoxide escaping into your living space. A professional chimney sweeper will cost you approximately $50 to $100 to determine whether you need a proper cleaning, and $100 to $300 for various chimney cleaning costs. Although this may seem like an additional expense at a time where you’re short on cash from the holidays, but don’t risk the safety of yourself and your family by not ensuring that your chimney and fireplace are clean and safe.
Lend a Helping Hand
Okay, so maybe this isn’t necessarily a maintenance and preventative option per-say, but lending a helping hand by shoveling your neighbor’s walkway or sidewalk, making sure they are aware of the maintenance suggestions covered through this series, or any other extra hand will go a long way in your personal well-being and attitude.
This concludes our 5 Part series of Winter Problems & Preventative Maintenance. Thank you for checking in and we hope you save money and time this winter season with these tips and suggestions! If you aren’t aware already, Home Fax Inspections now has 31 piece and 29 piece complete home inspection kits available at our website, www.HomeFaxInspect.com. Check it out and best of luck with your home ownership now and in the future!