Home Fall Prep: Why it’s important
The change of seasons brings new conditions affecting your home. Taking the time to do a health check and attend to issues now will pay off big when cold, wet and windy conditions return. Better to discover a leak in the roof now versus during a rain or windstorm!
Following are the 10 most important home maintenance tasks to prepare for the coming season.
Purchase a Programmable Thermostat
This worthy investment can save up to 10% on heating and cooling costs annually. Many programmable thermostats can be controlled from your phone.
Fertilize the Lawn
This helps prevent winter damage and spring weeds. Ask a local garden center or check online
for recommended products and instructions.
Reverse your Ceiling Fan
During winter, warm air rises up and cool air stays near the ground. Reversing your ceiling
fan pushes warm air down and cool air up.
Clean the Gutters
Blocked gutters can overflow and cause water damage to your home, including the foundation and basement. Clear leaves, branches and debris, and if in doubt about working on a ladder, ask friends for references or check online reviews for professional help.
Plant Bulbs for Spring-Blooming Flowers
Imagine a new patch of tulips, iris, daffodils, hyacinth or lilies. To be the envy of the neighborhood this spring, get those bulbs in 6-8 weeks before a frost.
Clean the Fireplace and Chimney
Before enjoying your first fire this winter, make sure the fireplace or wood stove and chimney are clean. For safety, fireplace and chimney inspection and cleaning are recommended every 50 burns.
Check Smoke Detectors
Replace the batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors now. Once done, press the test button to ensure they are working properly.
Furnace Checkup
Regular tune-ups can prevent furnace and AC wear and tear from dust, dirt and buildup in drains or on burners. HVAC techs clean and examine the equipment for corrosion and failing parts. A tune-up alone can instantly improve energy efficiency by up to 30%, better heat your home for less and provide cleaner air and a cleaner home.
Check Windows & Doors for Gaps or Leaks
In the morning or early evening when it’s fairly light outside but darker inside, check for gaps around doors or windows. You’ll know there’s a loose seal if you can see light coming through anywhere around the edges. Signs of leaks include dark or damp spots. Leaks or poor seals let in cold and moister, raising power costs and potentially damaging walls, ceilings and trim.
Closet switch
As days cool, sweaters and jackets will replace shorts and tees. Time to store summer and bring out winter wear. While doing so, cull items for donation or your Buy Nothing group.