ERIE, Pa., Nov. 24, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Winterizing your
home can help to lower your energy bills, prevent bigger more
costly repairs in the future, and reduce the risk of accidents like
a home heating fire.
Erie Insurance provides six simple ways you can winterize your
home this season.
- Windows and Doors: You can prevent chilly drafts, and
high heating bills, by checking and replacing any worn weather
stripping, and caulking any cracks. For loose-fitting doors, slide
a draft guard or rolled-up towel underneath to fill the gap.
- Gutters: Clear debris from gutters and downspouts to
prevent them from leaking or sagging. Clogged gutters and
subsequent water issues can cause foundation problems, wall and
ceiling damage, or even insect infestations. Just make sure you do
it safely – use a tall, sturdy ladder and never stand on the top
three rungs.
- Roof: Snow can be a heavy burden for an old or damaged
roof to handle. Before winter hits, inspect your roof for signs of
potential problems, like missing, broken, blistered or curling
shingles; cracked caulk or rust spots; or large patches of moss and
lichen. Any damaged, loose or missing shingles should be repaired
right away.
- Trees and Landscaping: Trim any branches hanging near
electric wires before they become a problem. Also, know how to
spot the signs of a diseased or dying tree. Heavy snow and strong
winter winds can knock down weak branches, so it's best to do the
prep work while the weather's still relatively mild.
- Fireplace: Check your fireplace and flue system to
remove soot or ashes. Check for cracks that could be a fire hazard.
Also, examine the fireplace for drafts. If it's cold despite the
damper being closed, the damper itself may need to be repaired or
replaced. If you're not planning on using your fireplace at all,
invest in a chimney balloon to block the opening.
- Furnace: Before you turn up the heat for the season,
start by changing (or cleaning) your furnace filter. It's also a
good idea to have an HVAC professional check your furnace once per
year. Make sure the furnace's burners are free of dust and debris.
If you choose to use a space heater for extra warmth, be cautious.
Space heaters cause about one-third of all winter house fires and
80 percent of all winter heating fire deaths, according to
the National Fire Protection Association.
You've invested a lot into your home, so make sure you are
taking care of it regularly. Contact an Erie Insurance
agent to find the right homeowners insurance plan to
protect you and your investment should anything happen this winter
season.
About Erie Insurance
According to A.M. Best Company, Erie Insurance Group, based in
Erie, Pennsylvania, is the 12th
largest homeowners insurer, 13th largest automobile insurer and
13th largest commercial lines insurer in the United States based on direct premiums
written. Founded in 1925, Erie Insurance is a Fortune 500 company
and the 16th largest property/casualty insurer in the United States based on total lines net
premium written. Rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best, ERIE has more than 6 million policies in force
and operates in 12 states and the District of Columbia. News releases and more
information are available on ERIE's website at
www.erieinsurance.com.
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SOURCE Erie Insurance Group