As temperatures drop, ensuring your facilities are prepared for winter is crucial for preventing costly damage and for keeping your staff and visitors safe and comfortable. Use this checklist as a guide to properly winterize your building!
Exterior and Grounds
| Task | Action |
|---|---|
| Inspect Roof and Drainage | Clear gutters, downspouts, and drains of leaves and debris. Check the roof for loose shingles, cracks, or potential leaks that heavy snow or ice could worsen. |
| Secure Water Access Points | Drain and shut off exterior hose bibs (spigots) and irrigation systems. Store hoses and cover outside faucets to prevent freezing and bursting pipes. |
| Examine Walkways and Pavement | Repair any cracks in sidewalks, driveways, or parking lots. Potholes and uneven surfaces pose tripping hazards and can be damaged further by freeze-thaw cycles. |
| Tree and Shrub Care | Trim dead or weak tree branches that could fall onto the building or power lines under the weight of snow or ice. |
| Check Emergency Exits | Ensure all exterior doors and emergency exits are properly sealed to prevent drafts, but remain easy to open. Verify proper operation of panic hardware. |
HVAC and Mechanical Systems
| Task | Action Details |
|---|---|
| Service Heating Systems | Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up for boilers, furnaces, and heat pumps. Change air filters monthly to ensure optimal efficiency and air quality. |
| Insulate Pipes | Add insulation to exposed water pipes, especially those running through unheated areas like basements, crawlspaces, or exterior walls, to guard against freezing. |
| Test Thermostats | Verify that all thermostats are accurately reading temperatures and operating the heating system correctly. Calibrate or replace faulty units. |
| Check Ventilation | Ensure air intakes and vents are clear of obstructions (like snow drifts or debris) to maintain proper air flow and prevent carbon monoxide buildup. |
Interior and Safety
| Task | Action Details |
|---|---|
| Inspect Windows and Doors | Apply weather stripping or caulk around any windows and doors with noticeable drafts. Repair broken seals or cracked panes. |
| Review Emergency Supplies | Restock supplies for snow and ice removal (salt, shovels, snow blower fuel). Verify emergency kits, flashlights, and generators (if applicable) are ready for use. |
| Test Fire Safety Equipment | Check fire alarms, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors. Ensure fire extinguishers are charged and easily accessible. |
| Educate Staff | Remind staff of the risks of using space heaters (ensure they follow safety guidelines) and the importance of reporting cold spots or maintenance issues immediately. |
Taking these proactive steps now can save significant time, stress, and money when the cold weather truly sets in. Let the experienced professionals at SFM help you to maintain a facility that is safe and efficient all winter long! Reach out to us to learn more!