Fall is a good time of year to begin preparing your apartment for the winter. As temperatures begin to drop, your apartment will require some low maintenance in order to keep it worry-free throughout the winter. Here are tips on how to get your apartment ready for the coming season.

Air Conditioner:

  • Be sure to remove your air conditioner.
  • Close and latch all windows.

Water Lines – to prevent water lines from freezing and bursting during cold weather:

  • When temperature drops below 10 degrees, allow water to trickle, especially at night when the temperatures drop.
  • Open up all cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate and warm the pipes.
  • If you go on vacation, leave the heat on, set to at least 55 degrees.
  • Check your windows to make sure you don’t have cold air leaking in your apartment. Frozen pipes are something you want to avoid. If you have to open your windows for any reason, make sure to close them right away.

Heating System:

  • Replace furnace filters EVERY 60 days. This ensures the most efficient economical operation of your system. Clogged filters can inhibit the operation of the system and cause costly repairs.
  • If you have radiators, check for steam and water leaks around relief valves. Please contact our office immediately if you see any leaks.
  • Clear obstacles from the vents so air can flow freely.
  • Reverse the direction of the ceiling fans to increase energy efficiency and comfort (if applicable).
  • Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and add refresh batteries if needed.
  • Lower blinds and curtains during the night and on cloudy days to prevent heat from escaping.
  • Add rugs to floors to instantly provide warmth.
  • Take extra precautions when using spaces heaters and other warming devices as well as candles and other lit decorations in your apartment. Never leave these items unattended even for just a few minutes. It is not uncommon for accidents to occur each year because people forgot and left something plugged in or lit and went away for the holiday.

Prepare an Emergency Kit:

  • Buy flashlights or battery operated lanterns for use during power shortages. Other suggestions include: battery powered radio, drinking water, pre-packed non-perishable food, propane camp stove fuel (NOT to be used indoors), non-electric can opener, charged cell phone, tool set, first aid kit, prescription medication plan in effect and pet food if you have a pet.
  • Have an evacuation plan in place.
  • Know where your main water shut off is located.
  • Take a moment to locate the fire extinguisher in your apartment or building.

If vacating (moving out) during the winter months:

  • Open all hot and cold water faucets.
  • Include tubs, showers, and flush all toilets.