Winter preparation: Local 4's winterization checklist

DETROIT – With another Michigan winter looming, Local 4 is helping you prepare for the long months ahead. Below is a checklist from Quality Home Inspection's John McAuliffe of ways to get ready for the winter before the cold weather hits.

Protection of the Exteriors:

• Clean gutters and downspouts
  
• Check location of downspouts discharges to get rid of any standing water around the foundation
  
• Inspect trees for weak branches: Heavy ice on weak tree limbs can cause those limbs to fall on power lines and roofs
  

Plumbing:

• Disconnect hoses from hose faucets and draining
  
• Winterize sprinkler system
  

Furnace:

• Check air filter and change it if it's dirty
  
• Have furnace or boiler checked by a licensed and qualified heating and cooling company every two years
  
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace if necessary, since the house will be closed up for winter
  

General:

• Confirm that sump pump operates properly
  
• Know location of main water shut-off valve

Quality Home Inspection, Inc. is based in Livonia.