Get Your Home Autumn Ready
Autumn is here; leaves are falling, temperatures are dropping, and all the fun fall activities are in full swing. As seasons change, our home needs change, too. This is a good time to do some maintenance to keep your home running smoothly and save your costs later down the road. Here’s our list of things around your home you can do before the days get even cooler.
Interior
- Check for drafts. Feel for drafts around window and door edges. Replace seals and repair caulking around window and door frames if needed.
- Prepare your air conditioner for winter. If your home has central air conditioning and you know you won’t be using it during the next few months, it may be a good idea to cover your outdoor unit for winter.
- Use your thermostat to your advantage. Check the temperature settings on your thermostat. Set it to lower automatically at night and when you’re not home.
- Check home safety devices. Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide devices.
- Get your furnace inspected. Hire an HVAC professional to test for leaks, check heating efficiency, change the filter, and even do a carbon monoxide check.
Exterior
- Check windows and doors. Check caulk and seals around all doors and windows from the outside like you did inside.
- Do a roof check. Do at least a visual inspection from the ground. Get a better look with some binoculars, or if you can safely use a ladder to climb up you can do that, too. Look for missing, damaged, or loose shingles.
- Clean gutters. Remove leaves, nests, and other debris from gutters. You can hire a service to do this professionally, too.
- Check the fireplace and the chimney. If you use your fireplace often during colder months, hire a professional to clean it and make sure everything is working correctly. It’s also a good idea to stock up on firewood ahead of time.
- Inspect the walls of your house. Check the exterior for cracks and/or holes. If you notice any, have them repaired right away.
- Check water drainage. Rainwater downspouts need to be clear of obstructions and direct water away from your home. Add extensions to downspouts if needed.
- Drain and store hoses. Drain garden hoses and store them in a dry place so any water left behind won’t freeze.
- Inspect trees. Check for loose or damaged limbs that may break or are close to power lines or your roof.
- Organize your shed. As you’re putting away summer items (such as seasonal and outdoor furniture, cushions, pool supplies, etc.), take the time to organize and clean the shed.
Garage
- Store summer vehicles. If you have a motorcycle, ATVs, or another type seasonal vehicle, store it in the garage during these upcoming winter months.
- Get winter equipment ready. Make sure your snow blower, if you have one, is ready to go.
- Check your generator. If you have a generator for power outages, check and make sure it’s in working order and ready to go.
Preventative maintenance can save money and time in the long run. Make sure you’re ready by properly maintaining the inside and outside of your home.