Get Your Home Winter-Ready with Smart Protection from FOSS Security
When temperatures drop overnight and South Dakota weather decides to throw a curveball, it’s tough to stay one step ahead of potential damage. Between freezing pipes, furnace issues, and the constant back-and-forth of fall and winter temps, homeowners have enough to worry about.
It’s no surprise that water damage remains one of the top insurance claims year after year. But with a few smart moves and a little help from technology, you can keep your home comfortable, protected, and efficient all winter long.
1. Get in Front of the Freeze
Don’t wait until your pipes are frozen to find out the temperature’s dropped. Connected temperature sensors can send you instant alerts when your home’s temperature nears freezing. That means you’ll have time to react before damage happens, not after.
Whether you’re home, at work, or traveling for the holidays, these smart alerts let you stay ahead of the cold from anywhere.
2. Prep Your Appliances
Your HVAC system is the heart of your home during winter, and it needs attention before the deep freeze hits. Most systems last between 15 and 25 years, but only with proper maintenance.
- Have a professional service your system at least once a year
- Replace air filters regularly to keep airflow strong and air quality high
- Keep vents clear and unobstructed
A clean, well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently and can save you from costly breakdowns when you need it most.
3. Keep Costs Low
Heating bills can climb fast during Sioux Falls winters. Before cranking up the thermostat, try these simple steps to stay cozy and save money:
Flip your ceiling fan switch to clockwise to pull cool air up and push warm air down.
Replace or clean your air filters regularly for better airflow.
Use a smart thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures based on time of day or occupancy.
Smart thermostats learn your routine and optimize comfort while keeping costs in check, and they pair perfectly with your FOSS Security system.
4. Stay on Top of Plumbing
Pipes can freeze in as little assix to eight hours of subzero temps, often while you’re asleep. The result? A burst pipe and a flooded mess by morning.
Water sensors can alert you the moment a leak or moisture is detected, giving you time to shut off the water and prevent major damage. It’s a small device that can save you thousands in repairs.
5. Make Smarter Energy Decisions
Every appliance left plugged in and running adds up, even when you’re not home. Smart plugs can help by automatically shutting off devices when you arm your system or leave the house.
Control your plugs through the mobile app, set schedules, or use rules so lights and electronics turn on or off automatically. It’s simple, efficient, and a smart way to reduce waste without lifting a finger.
6. Test Your Detectors
Your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are two of the most important devices in your home. FEMA recommends testing them once a month, while the NFPA suggests replacing batteries twice a year, a great reminder when you change your clocks for daylight savings.
If your Alarm.com-powered detectors ever detect danger, your system will automatically alert your monitoring station, who will contact emergency services right away. That’s protection that doesn’t sleep, even when you do.
Stay Ahead of the Season with FOSS Security
The first snow can sneak up fast, but that doesn’t mean it has to catch you off guard. With smart sensors, connected thermostats, and reliable monitoring, FOSS Security helps you prepare for winter the smart way.
So go ahead and enjoy the snowfall. We’ll help make sure your home stays warm, safe, and worry-free.
📍 Serving Sioux Falls and the surrounding 50-mile area.
👉 Schedule your free winter readiness consultation today.
