With winter on the horizon, now is the perfect time to winterize your PadSplit rental property. While it may seem early, brisk temperatures can sneak up quickly in many regions.
Starting your winter prep in late summer or early fall ensures you’re not caught off guard by an unexpected cold snap. By tackling these tasks while the weather is still mild, you can avoid the stress of last-minute preparations and potential emergencies.
Let’s dive into our 10 winter-proofing tips to ensure your PadSplit is winter-ready.
1. HVAC tune-up
Don’t wait for the first cold day to discover your heating system requires repairs. Book a professional inspection of your HVAC system well before winter hits. This check-up should include replacing air filters, checking for leaks or worn parts, and ensuring the system runs at peak efficiency.
Consider installing programmable thermostats in common areas and individual rooms. This investment can lead to significant energy savings and allow members to control their comfort levels.
Pro tip: If possible, schedule a cleaning of your AC system during the HVAC tune-up. This can save you service fees and time.
2. Plumbing protection
Frozen pipes can lead to proper damage and unhappy members. Begin by insulating pipes in unheated areas like attics, crawl spaces, and basements. Use heat tape or foam pipe insulation for added protection.
Locate and clearly mark the main water shut-off valve, and consider installing water leak detectors in prone areas, like under the kitchen sink. These small devices can alert you to leaks before they become major issues, potentially saving thousands in water damage repairs.
3. Window and door inspection
Heat loss through windows and doors can significantly increase your energy bills. Conduct a comprehensive inspection of the windows and doors in your PadSplit. In a pinch, you can locate drafts by holding a lit candle near the edges on a windy day. If the flame flickers, you’ve found a draft.
Seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. To maximize comfort for your PadSplit members, consider installing transparent heat-control window film or thermal curtains.
4. Exterior maintenance
Your PadSplit’s exterior is its first line of defense against winter weather. Clear out gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams that can cause water to collect and damage your roof and walls. Inspect your roofing for damaged or missing shingles and repair them promptly. Remove tree branches that hang over the house or power lines to prevent damage from snow and ice accumulation.
5. Insulation check
Proper insulation is critical to keeping your PadSplit warm and energy-efficient. Start in the attic, as this is where most heat loss occurs. Ensure you have at least 10-14 inches of insulation. If you can see the floor joists, you likely need more insulation. Don’t forget about walls and floors over unheated spaces. Adding insulation might seem costly upfront, but the energy savings are typically worthwhile in the long run.
6. Water management
Prevent frozen and burst pipes by properly managing outdoor water systems. Winterize all outdoor faucets, irrigation systems, and sprinkler systems. You should also disconnect, drain, and store hoses indoors. These simple precautions can save you from costly water damage repairs.
7. Safety measures
Winter brings increased fire and carbon monoxide risks due to more time spent indoors and the use of heating systems. Test all carbon monoxide, radon, and smoke detectors, and replace batteries as needed. If your PadSplit has a fireplace, have the chimney professionally inspected and cleaned. Stock up on snow removal tools, like ice melt and shovels, to keep walkways safe for your members.
8. Energy efficiency boost
Minor adaptions can lead to substantial savings on energy bills in the colder months. Utilize energy-saving methods like replacing all bulbs with LED versions and installing door sweeps at the bottom of exterior doors to prevent drafts. In common areas, consider using smart power strips for electronics, which can reduce “phantom” energy usage when devices are turned off.
9. Communicate with members
As a PadSplit host, clear communication with your members is crucial. Share your winterization efforts with them, providing tips on how they can contribute to keeping the property energy-efficient. As a PadSplit host, clear communication with your members is crucial for effective winter preparation. Here are five key strategies to keep your members informed and engaged:
- Send a winter prep notice: Outline your winterization plans and timeline, demonstrating your commitment to their comfort and the property’s maintenance.
- Provide energy efficiency recommendations: Share tips on optimal thermostat settings, proper use of curtains for insulation, and other energy-saving practices specific to winter. Consider incentivizing members to partake in these strategies.
- Handle maintenance requests quickly: Remind members to use the PadSplit messenger to report any winter-related issues. Encourage them to provide detailed descriptions and photos if possible. Commit to responding swiftly to these reports and update members on the resolution process.
- Share emergency procedures: Provide a list of emergency contacts and steps to take in winter-specific scenarios like power outages or frozen pipes.
- Offer winter home care education: Give tips on preventing frozen pipes, proper ventilation to avoid moisture buildup, and other winter-specific maintenance advice.
By taking this proactive approach, you’re not just preparing your property– you’re engaging your members in the process. This can result in a more comfortable rental experience, lower energy bills, and potentially more extended stays and positive reviews.
10. Create a cozy atmosphere
Winter in a coliving space presents unique opportunities to foster community. Consider adding some warm, cozy touches to common areas. This could include throw blankets and warm lighting options. Encourage members to gather for movie nights or game evenings. These small touches can make your PadSplit feel like a warm, inviting home during the cold months, potentially leading to higher occupancy rates and member satisfaction.
Set yourself up for success
By implementing these tips, you’re not just preparing for winter—you’re protecting your investment, ensuring member satisfaction, and setting yourself up for a stress-free season. Remember, a well-maintained PadSplit property is more likely to attract and retain members, even during the colder months.
Don’t wait for the first frost to start your winter prep. Begin working through this checklist today to ensure your PadSplit is ready for whatever winter brings.
Home winterizing FAQ
Q: When is the best time to start winterizing my PadSplit? A: It’s best to start in late summer or early fall, typically around August or September. This gives you ample time to address potential issues before cold weather hits.
Q: How much money can I save on energy bills by winterizing my PadSplit? A: While savings vary, proper winterization can reduce energy bills by 10-20% on average. Your exact savings amount will vary based on factors like location, property size, and implemented measures.
Q: What are the most critical areas to focus on when preparing for winter? A: The most critical areas are your HVAC system, plumbing, insulation, and sealing air leaks around windows and doors. These have the most significant impact on energy efficiency and preventing costly damage.
Q: How can I encourage my members to participate in energy-saving practices? A: Communicate clearly about energy-saving practices, provide guidelines in writing, and consider offering incentives for reduced energy usage. You could also organize a winter prep day where members can help with some tasks.
Q: Are there any winter-specific rules I should implement for my PadSplit? A: Consider rules about thermostat settings, proper use of space heaters if allowed, reporting any issues promptly, and guidelines for snow and ice removal responsibilities.
Q: How often should I have my HVAC system serviced? A: It’s recommended to have your HVAC system serviced at least once a year, ideally before the heating season starts.
Q: What’s the ideal temperature to set the thermostat in winter to balance comfort and energy savings? A: The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that homeowners set the thermostat to 68°F to 70°F during waking hours and lower it when asleep or away. However, you may need to adjust based on your specific circumstances and member comfort.
Q: How can I prevent pipes from freezing in frigid weather? A: Insulate pipes, keep a trickle of water running in extreme cold, maintain a consistent indoor temperature, and ensure warm air can circulate around pipes.
Q: What should I include in a winter emergency kit for my PadSplit? A: Include items like flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, a first-aid kit, blankets, non-perishable food, bottled water, and a list of emergency contacts.
Q: How do I know if my PadSplit has enough insulation? A: If you can see the attic floor joists, you need to add more insulation. You can also hire a pro to conduct an energy audit, which will identify areas needing more insulation.
