Winter is Here
Let me set the stage for one of the most common new homeowner winter fails:
It's Friday night, 9pm. You've made it out of the city after work. It’s a 2.5 hour drive, and you're now pulling up to your house upstate. You walk inside, but wait. It's absolutely freezing. The heat's not even kicking on.
Don't panic, you're in good company. One of the most common new homeowner mistakes during the first winter with a new house is to forget to set up auto-delivery for fuel. Depending on how much fuel was left in the tank when you first bought the house, you’ll probably run out in the fall or winter season once you start running the heat more regularly. But you can get ahead of this scenario, and other winter-related inconveniences, with just a little planning.
Here are the top 5 winter tips for new homeowners:
#1 Enroll in auto-delivery for fuel.
Contact your service provider to set up an auto-delivery account for your fuel. It's best to do this during your closing process, but otherwise just do it as soon as possible and definitely before the cold weather sets in.
And if you do find yourself in that dreaded scenario where you have run out of fuel, call your service provider and ask for an emergency delivery. There will likely be an extra fee, but it's worth it.
#2 Order firewood.
It's best to order firewood by August or September. This ensures you get the dry and seasoned firewood. Either way, anytime of year you order firewood ask if it's dry and seasoned.
Also specify what size you of wood you need, otherwise it may arrive in large cuts suitable for a fire pit but not for a small Jøtul wood stove.
A "cord" is the unit of measure for firewood. Most weekenders order a cord of firewood for the winter, or maybe a half cord for infrequent use.
Finally, make sure you arrange for your firewood to be dropped off at a time when you (or someone you hire) can stack it. The provider typically doesn't stack firewood but rather dumps the load in your driveway. To that end, make sure your car doesn't get blocked in unless you're immediately able to stack it.
The best way to find a good firewood delivery is word of mouth. You’ll be hard pressed to find options online (I’m currently working on it!). But your best bet is to go analogue and ask a neighbor for a recommendation.
#3 Install a remote thermostat.
Probably the most common remote thermostats I see up here are Nest and Honeywell, but there are other options, as well. Smart home systems are pretty affordable these days, so before choosing a remote thermostat, consider other smart home functions you may want to combine, like security cameras, outdoor lights and front door keypads.
Having a remote thermostat serves a few good purposes. You can easily monitor your heating system remotely, getting alerts if there are issues or if the temperature drops too low. It's also super convenient to be able to turn the heat up on your drive upstate, arriving to a cozy temperature.
And if you're getting involved with the short-term vacation rental scene, it's a no brainer. Trust me, you want guests arriving to a 70 degree house. If not, they'll turn the heat up to 85 degrees and leave it there the whole weekend. If they get hot, don't get surprised if they use the windows to adjust the heat, rather than the thermostat.
Installing a remote thermostat is usually a DIY project, though you may need an electrician depending on how your house is wired.
#4 Plowing
When you set up plowing, you'll essentially just get added to the provider's plow route. It's hands off for you from there. They'll know when to plow as the weather requires it and will bill you as needed. Most plows won't go out for less than three inches of snow.
I'm providing a link to some plow companies below, but I'd recommend that you first ask your neighbors who they use. There are loads of individuals who plow upstate, and if they're already going down your road that may be the best option for you. Another pro tip, often lawn care providers also do plowing. So if you have a good lawn care provider, they may also be a good lead for plowing.
One last thing, don't expect your plower to also shovel your walk. These are typically two separate jobs. Shoveling is either a job for yourself or a caretaker. But very necessary. If you don't keep up with it, you'll have a layer of ice form so thick that the spring season will be your only hope to remove it.
#5 Weatherproofing your house.
Do what you can to make your home efficient for the winter season. Two key projects are to ensure you have good windows and doors, as well as adequate insulation throughout your home.
Winter might not be the best season to replace windows or doors, but take stock during the cold months of where you may have drafts. And then get in line with a contractor as soon as possible. I hired one of the best contractors in my area to install new windows this year after a drafty prior winter season, but he was popular. It took six months to get fitted into the schedule.
Also, when you take energy efficient steps, be sure to educate yourself on the various tax credits available.
