During a storm:
If the power goes out and you have a generator, make sure you are using it safely and leave plenty of airflow space around the unit.
How Ice Dams are formed:
- Heat from inside your home enters the attic, warming the roof.
- The snow on top of your roof melts and runs off the house.
- As temperatures, drop, the melted snow can refreeze at the edge of the roof, forming an ice dam.
- The ice dam block any additional melted snow and forces it back up the roof and into the attic.
Preventing Ice Dams:
- Insulate the attic floor and light fixtures in the ceiling below it to minimize the amount of heat exiting from your home.
- Keep the attic well ventilated
- Remove debris from gutters and drains so water can properly flow through them
- Put weather stripping around entryways to the attic
- Seal attic ducts, chimneys and fans.
Snow Flood:
- Inspect sump pumps and drains to make sure they are working properly
- Shut off electrical service at the main breaker if you think the electrical system and outlets may end up under water
- Place appliances on masonry blocks or concrete at least 12 inches above the projected flood elevation
- Seal cracks or gaps in your foundation or walls
- Remove piles of snow that are against the house
Additional Tips:
Have your chimney swept before using it for the cold winter months
Make sure your propane tanks are filled up and have your generator serviced
Clean out your dryer vent and hose. Make sure the flaps on the outside of the house are closing properly to minimize the cold air entering the house.