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. Â