Greater Baltimore Property Management Blog

Winter Checkup

As cold weather is approaching, there are chances of interior or exterior pipes getting frozen, to avoid freezing the following precautions need to be done. We do alert tenants to complete the following to work together to avoid any property damage from the cold winter weather.

1. Turn OFF all interior water valves to exterior faucets. OPEN exterior faucets (leave them open). Detach and drain hoses.

2. During very low temperatures, increase warm air circulation by opening interior doors and cabinet doors under the sinks, especially when water lines are next to exterior walls.

3. In the event of a burst water line, immediately TURN OFF the interior main water valve and report the problem to property management.

4. Keep air returns clean and adjust air registers for the best possible balance of warm air circulation to all areas of the house. If your house has a damper on the furnace duct, change the setting from “Summer” to “Winter” (there will be a written indication on the ductwork).

5. Change furnace filters every month or two to ensure proper performance of the heating and air conditioning systems, which reduces operating costs.

6. In the event of power failure, immediately report the problem to your power company.

7. In the event of a heating system failure, immediately report the problem to Property Management.

8. In the event of a power or heating system failure of an extended duration, allow interior faucets to drip slightly to reduce the possibility of frozen water lines.

9. In the event, you will be gone for an extended period of time, maintain the house temperature above 55 degrees F. Have a friend or neighbor check your home during your absence to ensure the heating system is functioning. 

10. Keep storm doors, storm windows, and garage doors closed if applicable.

11. If you are responsible for landscaping, trimming all shrubs, raking all leaves, and cleaning gutters; the best time for all these items is after the Thanksgiving holiday.

12. BGE also has a Program called Quick Home Energy Check-up, if you have not previously participated here is the link to request an appointment: http://bgesmartenergy.com/residential/request-appointment. Also there for low-income families, there is a weatherization program to assist your households in lowering their energy costs by increasing the energy efficiency of your homes.