As we settle into November here in St. Joe, the colder weather starts to roll in for good. This is the perfect month to tackle a few simple home tasks that keep things running smoothly through the winter. A little prep now goes a long way in preventing cold-weather headaches and keeping your home warm, safe, and efficient all season long.
1. Prep your Plumbing for Freezing Temps
Pro Tip: A few small precautions can prevent thousands in damage from a burst pipe.
Action Items:
- Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages by adding foam pipe sleeves. Here’s a quick instructional video.
- Make sure heat reaches plumbing under sinks—open cabinet doors during cold snaps.
- If you’re traveling, keep your thermostat no lower than 55°F.
2. Clean & Inspect Your Fireplace or Gas Logs
Pro Tip: Even if you only use your fireplace a few times a season, buildup or blockages can be a safety hazard.
Action Items:
For wood-burning fireplaces: Have a chimney sweep clean and inspect it.
Remove old ashes and debris (store ashes in a metal container).
For gas logs: Test the pilot light and check for dust buildup.
Make sure your damper opens/closes properly.
Verify carbon monoxide detectors are within 10–15 feet of sleeping areas.
3. Reverse Ceiling Fans & Deep Clean Vents
Pro Tip: One tiny switch on your ceiling fan can literally recirculate warm air and lower heating bills.
Action Items:
Reverse ceiling fans to clockwise to push warm air down.
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Vacuum return vents and supply vents throughout the home.
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If you notice heavy dust buildup, replace vent covers or schedule professional duct cleaning.
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Wash or replace vent grates in kitchens/bathrooms where grease and moisture collect.
Final Thoughts
These three maintenance tasks—prepping your plumbing for freezing weather, cleaning and inspecting your fireplace or gas logs, and reversing celing fans and deep cleaning vents are small steps that can have a big impact.
Need help finding a trusted local pro to tackle any of these projects? I have a list of vetted service providers right here in St. Joseph.
Text me 913-707-1705 or email danielledalton@stjregroup.com for my recommendation
