8 Ways To Beat The Freeze In Hampton Roads This Winter

Freezing temperatures are upon on in Hampton Roads, and while temperatures tend to remain moderately mild here in Southeast Virginia, it's always helpful to have some handy tips to help combat the chill as we head into the winter season. Grab your warmest blankets and a cup of hot cocoa, and cozy up as we explore preventative measures you should be taking to protect your home this season.

1. Clean out debris from gutters to avoid ice dams and icicles from forming during winter storms which often bring freezing rain and/or snow

2. Seal holes and openings near windows and doors to prevent cold, drafty air from coming inside. 

3. Remove outdoor hoses from spigots to prevent freezing. This is also an excellent time to check your pipes to make sure they are properly insulated. 

4. Clear your driveway from debris to prevent slips in icy weather - it's also a great time to grab a bag of ice melt at your local hardware store for icy mornings. 

5. Get your HVAC checked and serviced to help your system run more efficiently through the season. A qualified technician will check to make sure your system is clear of any build-up that could block heat from getting inside your home. It's also a great time to check your thermostat and change out air filters! 

6. Get your chimneys checked and swept! If you use your fireplace as a heat source in the winter months, you'll want to have your chimney inspected and swept to prevent fires in your home! 

7. Check your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors and replace batteries as needed. The colder months are notoriously known as the high season of home fires, and taking small preventative measures such as replacing batteries in your smoke detectors could prevent a devastating home fire. 

8. Bring your outdoor hose in. Remove all attached hoses, draining completely before storing them in a shed or garage.

Now that you've winterized your home and prepared for the upcoming long, cold nights, it's time to enjoy a cozy fire by the fireplace and a cup of hot cocoa knowing you and your family will be well-prepared for whatever Mother Nature may bring to our Hampton Roads community this winter.