Get Ready for Winter: Tips from Vitalia Solon’s Plant Operations Director

As the Plant Operations Director at Vitalia Solon. I know the importance of having the community and my home ready for the cold winter weather. To prepare your house for winter weather, start by inspecting and sealing any gaps or cracks in doors, windows, and walls to prevent drafts and conserve heat. Be sure to clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Thus preventing ice dams that can damage your roof and walls when snow and ice accumulate. 

Check your heating system, replace air filters, or schedule a professional inspection to ensure it’s functioning efficiently and safely for the colder months. Insulate your home properly by adding weatherstripping to doors and windows, and consider adding insulation to your attic and walls to retain heat and lower energy bills. Don’t forget also to prepare your outdoor spaces. Make sure to drain and store garden hoses, cover outdoor furniture, and trim tree branches that could damage your home during winter storms. 

There are many activities I do to prepare for colder weather in our community:

• Make sure windows are shut, and exit doors are sealed in common areas
• Disconnect garden hoses and turn off fountains
• Seal cracks on exterior walls and sidewalks, if needed
• Seal windows from outside, if needed
• Service rooftop units quarterly and as needed
• Change air filters in apartments
• Get the irrigation system serviced and shut off
• Clean courtyards of debris
• Take courtyard/patio furniture to storage

The benefits of preparing for colder weather. Are energy savings, avoiding major rooftop unit malfunctions, and providing residents a healthier environment.

A little time and money spent preparing for freezing weather will pay off great dividends through energy savings. There is no way to stop “Old Man Winter” from arriving at your door, but with some preparation, he’ll stay outside where he belongs!