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Preparing for Winter Weather

11/6/2015

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Getting ready for winter weather

Fall has arrived, but lucky for us there’s still time to get ready for winter weather, including storms. (I don’t know about you but I greatly appreciate that I have yet to shovel my driveway this year.)
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This was taken on October 4th last year. Hello FALL! This year we clocked in at a nice 65 degrees, we're holding out a little longer this time around.

​We know all too well that extreme cold is always a possibility here in Colorado so we at ALINK Insurance Services have compiled some tips to help you stay safe and limit damage.



Preparing your home
  • Perform basic winter maintenance — insulate your walls and attic, caulk and weather-strip doors and windows, and insulate water lines that run along outer walls. When temperatures drop, keep water taps slightly open so they drip continuously, and keep the cabinets under sinks open to allow warmer air in.
  • If you use a fireplace or wood stove, have the chimney or flue inspected each year. Make sure your house has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and test them monthly.
  • Check your emergency supplies and ensure that you have adequate food and water, along with a battery-powered radio, in the event of an extended power outage. You’ll want a week’s worth of supplies, or more if you live in a remote area.
  • Never use gas-powered generators or barbecue grills indoors. These can allow deadly carbon monoxide to build up.

Preparing your car
  • Have your vehicle serviced according to manufacturer recommendations. Check the antifreeze level.
  • Keep the gas tank near full, which helps avoid ice in the fuel lines and the gas tank itself.
  • Replace wiper fluid with a wintertime mixture.
  • Make sure your tires are in good shape and have the proper air pressure.
  • Check to confirm your battery has a good charge, your heater and defroster are working well, and that your emergency lights are functional. 

Preparing yourself
  • Always wear temperature-appropriate clothing, such as hats, gloves, scarves, etc. Remove any wet clothing immediately. And keep spare clothing in your car trunk throughout winter in case you are stranded or stuck.
  • Stay hydrated. You might think this is more important when it’s warm outside, but it’s just as vital in winter.
  • Be mindful of physical exertion and the amount of time you’re spending outdoors. Shoveling snow is hard work, so don’t overdo it!

Winter is a lot of fun (despite the snow shoveling), and we’re looking forward to all the sledding and skiing and snowboarding and trips to Beaver Creek/Aspen/Breckenridge/Copper/Vail or wherever your adventures take you! So get your house, car and body ready, and have a great season!

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​Contact Us!


At ALINK Insurance Services, we can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at any of our offices today!

Denver Metro/Parker: 303-752-6479
Colorado Springs: 719-473-6262
Greeley: 970-475-0900
Surrounding States: 877-643-6148

​We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what's important to you is protected!
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Winterizing Vacant Homes

10/21/2014

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If you have a vacation home, an unoccupied rental, or are going to be away for an extended period of time this winter, getting your vacant home ready for the cold weather is an important step. Homes that are not properly winterized are prime candidates for burst water pipes and subsequent water damage. Water damage affects not only the plumbing, but also the walls, ceiling, floors, and any personal items that may be kept in the home. Repairs can cost in the thousands of dollars. Taking action now will ensure that your property and your belongings are secure. 

 What is Winterization?

In order to winterize a home, a number of steps must be taken to ensure that it is ready for cold weather. This includes the following:

  • Turning off water supply.

  • Turning off and draining water heater.

  • Draining supply lines.  

  • Blowing out water supply lines to ensure there is no remaining water.

  • Draining appliances and any water filters or water treatment  systems.

  • Draining heating systems if needed.

  • Filling drains or traps with anti-freeze.



If you plan to be gone for a short period of time over the winter, full winterization is not necessary, but at the very least be sure to leave your heat on at a minimum setting. While this may seem like a waste of money and energy, the price of your heating bill will still be less expensive than damages that might occur with a frozen pipe. You can, however, turn off the main water supply to a home, as this will also help prevent against frozen pipes.

ALINK Insurance Services is here for you!  Contact us to discuss any of your insurance needs.

Denver Metro/Parker: 303-752-6479
Colorado Springs: 719-473-6262
Greeley: 970-475-0900
Surrounding States: 877-643-6148


Materials obtained from the Advantage Sewer & Drain October 2014 Newsletter

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Preparing Your Home for Winter

10/17/2014

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The crisp autumn mornings are a sure sign that winter is near. Raking the leaves in the yard is an expected household chore, but don't forget that not all of your preparations need to happen outside in the yard. Before the sub-zero temperatures arrive it is important to pay attention to the plumbing as well.

 Preparing Your Home for Winter:

Preparing your home for the cold weather is one of the most important things you can do this fall. Follow these tips to ensure that you don't end up with frozen pipes this winter.


  • Make sure furnace is set at a minimum of 55 degrees to prevent frozen pipes.
  • Disconnect outdoor water hoses.
  • Close the shut-off valves leading to outside faucets, and drain water from the pipes.
  • Because your water heater works harder in cold temperatures, be sure that it is running at optimal levels. Flush the tank to rid it of sediment and build-up.
  • Set your water heater at 120 degrees for ideal performance. (Note this is scalding hot water, be sensitive to safety concerns with small children in the home.)
  • Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
  • Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.
  • Open cabinet doors to allow heat to flow in concealed spaces.
  • Inspect and clean your sump pump.
  • Clean sewer lines to prevent a backup.
  • Check weather stripping and insulation around exterior doors and windows.

Let's take these cooler temperatures on by storm and be prepared!  Contact us here at ALINK Insurance Services to ensure that all your insurance needs are met this approaching winter season.


Denver Metro/Parker: 303-752-6479
Colorado Springs: 719-473-6262
Greeley: 970-475-0900
Surrounding States: 877-643-6148


Materials obtained from the Advantage Sewer & Drain October 2014 Newsletter

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