Protecting Homes From Winters Wrath

How Northeast Ohio Homeowners Can Guard Against Old Man Winter's Wrath

Criterium-Ackerman Engineers offers tips to prevent damage and reduce heating costs

(11/26/2004, Middleburg Heights>, Ohio) - Old Man Winter is coming - and he's looking to pick your pocket and wreck your house. Bob Ackerman of Criterium-Ackerman Engineers urges local residents to take steps now to prevent frozen pipes, drafty windows and higher heating costs.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, winter heating costs are expected to jump 20-25 percent compared to last winter, Ackerman said, but smart homeowners can help combat those costs and prevent costly repairs.

"View your home as a complete network with many important pieces working together, and ensure that each system is functioning properly," Ackerman advises. "This will translate into higher energy efficiency and less chance of any damage caused by winter storms."

Here are five things Northeast Ohio homeowners can do now to avoid costly repairs during the spring thaw:

Frozen pipes - "When you leave for vacation, even if for a long weekend, make sure all thermostats are set for at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit," Ackerman said. "This will prevent the house temperature from dropping to dangerous levels that will cause your pipes to freeze." Make sure to wrap pipes in unheated spaces with quality insulation or heat tape.

Roof and Gutters - Inspect the roof for any missing/cracked shingles or spots that have worn off completely. Gutters also need inspection to keep them free of debris that could cause water damage. If you spot any major problems, call a roofing contractor.

Drafty House - Wave a lit candle around the windows, doors, pipes and ducts to test for air leaks. If the flame flickers noticeably, then it's time to weather strip or caulk. Also, late fall is the ideal time to replace older doors and windows with storms. "Solid storm windows greatly eliminate drafts, increasing both the comfort and the energy efficiency of your home," said Ackerman.

Fireplace and Chimney - Close the flue when not using the fireplace. Warm air rises and quickly leaks through an open flue. When winterizing the chimney, shine a flashlight inside to look for dark, scaly spots. Soot build-up on the walls of the chimney can be a serious fire hazard. Ackerman recommends thoroughly cleaning fireplaces at least once a year, depending on use.

Furnace and Boilers - As the heating system kicks on, check for any strange noises or odors. Other than an initial puff of dust from a forced-air heater, there shouldn't be any burning smells or residue emitting from the furnace. "The flame under the furnace should be a steady blue," says Ackerman, "not yellow or flickering."

While inspecting the furnace, be sure to replace the air filters. To prevent overworking the furnace, perform this maintenance check once a month.

Ackerman reminds Northeast Ohio homeowners that a professional engineer can perform an energy audit to gauge the home's energy efficiency and winter-readiness. "A home energy audit pinpoints the areas in the home that use the most energy. An engineer will discuss strategies with the homeowner to raise the efficiency level of these deficient systems," explains Ackerman. "In the end, the audit helps you prioritize when it comes time to make changes that will protect your house year-round."

For more information or to receive a free copy of Criterium Engineers' newsletter, Your Home, with more tips for homeowners, please contact Kathy Hayden of Criterium-Ackerman Engineers at 440-236-5779.

About Criterium Engineers

Founded in 1970, Criterium-Ackerman Engineers offers a wide range of building engineering services and is affiliated with over 70 offices nationwide. The company specializes in inspections and investigative engineering services for new and existing homes or buildings. All offices are individually owned or operated by Licensed Professional Engineers or Registered Architects. For more information, visit the company's national website at www.criterium-engineers.com or local office website at www.criterium-ackerman.com

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