Checklist to Winterize Your Home in the NC High Country

*Clean the gutters - Clear out any debris or leaves. Install downspout extenders as needed to direct water flow away from the house. 

*Insulate pipes/plumbing - Insulate pipes that are susceptible to freezing.  If you are away from the home for an extended time:  leave the heat on & you may want to leave a small stream of water flowing from a faucet to ensure pipes don’t freeze and burst. 

*Seal any cracks - Re-caulk (or use weather stripping) any cracks around doors & windows to prevent drafts. 

*Maintain heating systems - Furnaces, fireplaces & chimneys should all be checked routinely at least once a year. 

*Check all detectors - This is a routine task that you should be doing monthly. 

*Tend to the trees - Trim all trees in your yard and remove any dead branches before the snow arrives.  

*Stow the hose away Winterize your garden hose and any outdoor spigots. Drain the hose and store it away. Drain, turn off and then insulate outdoor pipes to prevent freezing. 

Article from:  https://www.smithfieldstoragenc.com/blog/7-step-checklist-to-winterize-your-home-in-north-carolina