For older adults, especially those living alone or staying in a longtime family home, a little prevention now can make winter much easier. The goal is not to tackle a major renovation. It is to identify the small problems that become expensive, uncomfortable or unsafe once temperatures drop.

 

Start with the heating system

 

If your furnace or heat pump has not been serviced recently, fall is a good time to schedule an inspection.

 

KUB recommends having HVAC systems serviced before winter and using a qualified contractor for regular inspections and maintenance. A tune-up can help identify worn parts, airflow problems and other issues before the system is working its hardest.

 

Homeowners can also do a few simple things themselves: replace or clean the HVAC filter, make sure furniture is not blocking vents, and turn the heat on briefly before cold weather arrives to confirm that the system starts and operates normally.

 

If you notice unusual smells, loud noises, repeated cycling or rooms that no longer heat evenly, it is better to call a professional now than wait for the first freezing night.

 

Stop cold air before it gets inside

 

Drafts around doors and windows can make a house feel colder and force the heating system to run longer.

 

Check the weatherstripping around exterior doors and look for visible gaps around windows. KUB specifically recommends sealing leaks and cracks and replacing worn weatherstripping before winter.

 

A simple test is to stand near windows and doors on a cool or windy day and feel for moving air. Door sweeps, caulk and replacement weatherstripping can often address smaller gaps without a large expense.

 

For households needing more substantial improvements, qualifying KUB customers may be eligible for TVA Home Uplift, which can provide free efficiency improvements such as HVAC repair or replacement, insulation, water heaters and other upgrades. KUB says participating households receive an average of about $10,000 in improvements.

 

Protect pipes before freezing temperatures

 

Frozen pipes can turn into one of winter’s most expensive home repairs.

 

Before freezing weather arrives, disconnect garden hoses and protect outdoor faucets. Pipes in crawl spaces, attics, garages and along exterior walls deserve extra attention because they are more exposed to cold air.

 

KUB recommends insulating vulnerable pipes and, during freezing weather, opening cabinet doors beneath sinks on exterior walls so warmer indoor air can circulate around plumbing. In especially cold conditions, a very slow faucet drip may also help protect vulnerable lines, though it will increase water use.

 

It is also worth knowing where the home’s main water shutoff valve is located. If a pipe ever bursts, quickly shutting off the water can substantially reduce damage.

 

Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

 

Heating season also means furnaces, fireplaces and space heaters begin operating again.

 

Test every smoke alarm in the house and replace batteries if needed. If the home uses natural gas, propane, a fireplace or another fuel-burning appliance, make sure carbon monoxide alarms are also working.

 

Knoxville residents who cannot afford smoke alarms or are unable to safely install or maintain them can get help through the Knoxville Fire Department Smoke Alarm Program. The department provides smoke alarms and replacement batteries free to qualifying residents of single-family homes, and firefighters can install them. Residents can contact 311 or 865-215-4311 during normal business hours.

 

That can be especially useful for anyone who should not be climbing a ladder to reach ceiling-mounted alarms.

 

Leave the ladder in the garage

 

Fall maintenance often comes with a temptation to clean gutters, trim limbs, inspect the roof or climb into an attic.

 

For many older adults, those jobs simply are not worth the fall risk.

 

Anything requiring a tall ladder, roof access, heavy lifting or crawling into tight spaces is usually better handled by a family member, trusted neighbor or qualified professional. The same goes for electrical work, gas appliances and furnace repairs.

 

Knowing what not to do yourself is part of preparing safely.

 

Look around the outside of the house

 

Walk around the property before leaves begin piling up.

 

Check that gutters and downspouts appear clear and are directing water away from the foundation. Look for loose steps, railings or uneven walkways that could become more dangerous when covered with wet leaves, frost or ice.

 

Exterior lighting matters, too. Days are getting shorter, so now is a good time to replace burned-out porch, driveway and walkway bulbs.

 

For seniors with limited mobility, consider arranging leaf removal and other yard maintenance before the season gets busy.

 

Prepare for higher heating bills

 

Heating typically becomes one of the largest household energy expenses during colder months.

 

KUB recommends setting the thermostat as low as is safely and comfortably practical and notes that small, consistent temperature changes can reduce energy use.

 

Older adults who have trouble keeping up with heating costs may also qualify for local assistance. Project Help, administered through the Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee, helps eligible households with electricity, natural gas, propane and other heating expenses, with an emphasis on older adults and others facing financial hardship.

 

KUB customers can contact CAC at 865-637-6700 to ask about eligibility.

 

There may be help for bigger home improvements

 

Some winter problems cannot be solved with a tube of caulk or a new furnace filter.

 

Tennessee’s Weatherization Assistance Program helps eligible households make energy-efficiency improvements, with older adults among the groups the program is designed to assist. Improvements may include insulation, air sealing and other measures intended to make homes safer and more comfortable.

 

KUB customers may also have access to weatherization through TVA Home Uplift or the Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee.

 

A simple fall checklist

 

Before colder weather settles in, try to get these jobs crossed off:

 

Have the furnace or heat pump checked. Replace the filter and make sure the system is working normally.

 

Check doors and windows for drafts. Replace worn weatherstripping and seal obvious gaps.

 

Protect exposed plumbing. Disconnect outdoor hoses and insulate vulnerable pipes.

 

Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Ask for assistance rather than climbing if reaching them is difficult.

 

Check outdoor lighting and walkways. Fix loose rails and address tripping hazards before wet leaves and frost arrive.

 

Know who to call. Keep phone numbers handy for your HVAC contractor, plumber, utility company and a trusted family member or neighbor.

 

A few hours of preparation this fall can make the difference between a comfortable winter at home and an emergency repair on one of the coldest days of the year.