Fall is here! And although the weather has remained fairly warm, the cool fall air will be here soon. With winter around the corner, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the changes in the weather. This checklist will help you get your home ready for the fall and winter weather. You may be surprised how performing these simple tasks can save you money down the road by allowing you to find little inefficiencies that could lead to more serious issues.
Furnace:
- Replace filter(s) – every 6-8 weeks is recommended for disposable filters
- Turn system on and make sure it seems to be working properly
- Adjust registers and confirm that cold air returns are clear of furniture or draperies
Humidifiers
- Clean and activate per manufacturer’s instructions
Exterior doors:
- Weather stripping – adjust or replace, if needed
- Caulk – touch up areas that are pulling away or replace areas that have become brittle
- Doors – check thresholds, most are adjustable by simply using a quarter to turn the large screws along the top edge
Irrigation systems
- Make sure to have a professional winterize
Hoses & faucets
- Remove all hoses, even “freeze-proof” faucets can be damaged if the water in the hose freezes and expands into the pipe
Fireplaces:
- Inspect your chimney for nests
- Professional chimney cleaning is a good idea on a regular basis for wood burning fireplace and stoves to avoid potential hazards
Overhead garage doors:
- Check and tighten bolts as needed
- Lubricate springs with motor oil
- Hire a professional for other repairs
Home Exterior:
- Clean gutters
- Check downspouts for clogs
- Check to make sure splash blocks drain away from the house regularly to avoid problems like wood rot, pest infestations, foundation damage and wet basements
- Check foundation, concrete slabs and yard for settling of backfill soils; fill in as needed to maintain positive drainage
- Windows and screens – wash and lubricate tracks, and check seals for leaks
