Prep Your Home and Car for the Cold Weather Ahead

DURAND, Mich.,–– Winter is right around the corner, making everyone anxious for what this cold season will bring to Michigan this year. Whether it is snow or below freezing temperatures, it's best to be prepared for what is to come. Your house and vehicle(s) are valuable investments. They may not be ready for the impact that the cool temps will have on them. That is why we've put together a list of how to prep your home and car for the cold weather ahead. These tips will make your life easier and help you save a few extra bucks in the long run this season:

Home

1. Prep all your plumbing inside and out. Clean out your house's gutters and disconnect/drain all your outside hoses. Shut off your outside water valves, if possible. Keep your cabinet doors open in your kitchen and bathroom(s) during cold spells to allow warm air to circulate around your pipes. Use heat tape around pipes that are prone to freezing, if necessary.
2. If you have a fireplace, make sure it is ready to go for nice and cozy fires all winter long. Get your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional. It is also a good idea to have your heating components in your house checked to make certain that warm air will flow freely.
3. Sealing the leaks around your house will keep the warm air inside. You don't want any cold drafts seeping in. Add weather-stripping around your doors and windows and caulk any gaps that you see. Also replace any worn doorstops. If need-be, install storm windows and doors to ensure every inch of your house is closed off from the outside air.

Car

1. Tire Maintenance: Check your tire pressure. Cold weather can cause your tire's air pressure to decrease. Road conditions aren't ideal in the winter, increasing the chances of getting into an accident. Check your tire tread as well to ensure your vehicle will have enough grip on the road in the snow and slushy/wet conditions this season.
2. Brake Care: If your brakes aren't in the best condition, you are putting yourself at risk while driving. Ensure your safety on the road by getting your brakes inspected. They may need to be repaired or replaced.
3. Vehicle Fluids: Oil is a vital component to your car's ability to run properly. Check your oil to make sure it's not low or black and gritty. If it is, you'll want to stop in for an oil change to help last you through the winter. Also make sure to check out your vehicle's other fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and washer fluid.
4. Wiper Blades: Winter weather can make it hard to see clearly through your windshield while driving. Your windshield wipers may experience significant wear and tear from cold temps and ice/snow buildup. Make sure your wipers aren't worn out by checking out our list of signs to look for.

Don't be the victim of a frozen house pipe or faulty brakes this winter season. Prep your home and car for the cold weather ahead now before the cool temps and dangerous road conditions begin to take over. You'll be thankful you did. If you are in need of new tires, brakes, an oil change, wiper blades, or any other maintenance, schedule an appointment with our service team. We'll take care of your vehicle needs to make sure you remain safe on the road this winter! Be sure to frequently check out our coupons page to help you save on service.

Located at 9009 East Lansing Road in Durand, MI 48429, Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand wants to revolutionize your car buying experience. We’ll bring all the transparency and customer satisfaction you need while making the buying experience fun! If you have any questions be sure to contact us at (989) 288-2657 or head over to our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com! We are proud to serve Durand and the surrounding communities of Owosso, Flint, Genesee Charter Township, Swartz Creek, and Corunna.

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