2 . Maintain an ideal temperature in your home . Utilize smart-home technology , such as Savant , AT & T Home Automation and ADT Digital Life , to help monitor and control the temperature and humidity while you are away . In cold weather climates , maintain an inside temperature of at least 65 degrees to help avoid burst pipes . Open cabinets under sinks and in front of plumbing to help circulate warm air . In warm weather climates , maintain an interior relative humidity at or below 40 percent to help avoid mold .
3 . Maintain ideal conditions in your attic . Many frozen and burst pipe claims have originated in the attic . Make sure it ’ s properly insulated and that the pipes , along with exposed surfaces , are properly insulated with flexible closed-cell polyethylene or elastomeric insulation .
4 . Conduct an energy audit to identify at-risk areas of your home . It can identify hidden defects that could put plumbing at risk , including insulation gaps , air leakage , duct leakage and moisture issues . As a courtesy , many utility companies offer these audits free to their customers .
5 . Install a backup generator . During a power outage , a backup generator can help keep important equipment running . GE and Kohler generators are good options due to their powermanagement technology , wireless monitoring , reliability , design , high-quality power and premium warranty .
6 . Install a sump pump with a backup power source if you reside in a low-lying area . Sump pumps are beneficial for homes located in flood-prone areas and areas where rapidly melting snow can lead to flooded basements or crawlspaces . Having a battery or water-powered backup power source in place will help to keep it running during power outages . Many sump pumps can be wired into your smart-home system , providing you alerts as issues develop . ◆
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lNSURANCE DECISIONS SHOULD NOT BE MADE IN THE DARK . At Starkweather & Shepley , our Private Client professionals understand successful individuals and families require more than a one-size fits all approach to personal asset protection and insurance solutions . Visit starshep . com to speak to one of our trusted advisors . We look forward to speaking with you .
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