With summer a fading memory, now’s the time to ready your home for fall’s cooler temps and unpredictable weather conditions. Read below for how to prep you home during the change of season!
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Clear out the gutters
Remove leaves and other debris from your drainpipe and gutters to prevent clogging. In areas with old winters, outdoor faucets should be drained in the fall.
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Clean the fireplace and chimney
You can clear out ash and charred wood from the fireplace yourself, but leave the chimney cleaning to a professional. Have the chimney cleaner check the damper to ensure it can be tightly closed to prevent drafts.
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Check the heating system
Do a survey of your home’s heating vents to make sure they’re not blocked or covered by furniture, carpeting or curtains. Dust vents and clean all filters. Make an appointment for an annual heating system check-p.
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Store air conditioners
If you have removable window air conditioners, be sure to unplug them before taking them down. Dust and clean before covering or storing.
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Check for drafts
Stay warm, save energy and reduce your heating bills this fall by examining windows and doors for cracks and sealing them to prevent drafts.
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Put up storm windows
If you have removable screens, now’s the time to clean, store and replace them with storm windows.
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Ready the water heater
Prepare for cooler weather by draining the water heater and clearing out any debris that has settled in the tank.