The fall season is known for fallen orange leaves, cool wind and a musky, sweet smell in the air. However, this is also the time to prepare your house for the upcoming winter season. If you take the right steps to maintain your home during the fall season, your home will not only be protected from cold weather or winter storms but will also have a longer life span.
Clogged Gutters Can Be Problematic
Clogged gutters can be hugely problematic during fall. All your sewerage runs through gutters. If they are not cleaned regularly, the interior and exterior of your home can get flooded. This can also damage your basement. It is best to get your gutters cleaned by professionals, but if you are doing it yourself, you can use an old spatula to clean the dirt out of the gutters.
Ensure That You Have Functioning Smoke Detectors
You will be operating your heaters or furnaces in winter. Therefore, your smoke detectors must work properly to avoid any unprecedented fire-related damage. Check your smoke detectors’ batteries and their expiration dates to know that they are in full working condition. In a similar way, check the expiry dates on your fire extinguishers and other safety gadgets.
Watch Out for Air Leaks
Air leaks around your windows or doors can increase your heating bills. It is wise to check your house for any air leaks to avoid a drafty house in the winter. Weather-stripping and filling in gaps with caulk is a less costly way of handling this problem. You can check an air leak by holding a candle near the window frame. If the flame flickers, you can be certain there is an air leak. However, take caution and make sure not to bring the candle next to any flammable material.
Repair the Roof
Inspect your roof for any signs of damage. If you see any such sign, then immediately repair it. A faulty roof will be extremely difficult to repair during harsh winter due to cold spells and snowstorms. Staying vigilant during the fall season will save you from a lot of trouble during winter.
Examine the Driveway
This is necessary because during winters, if it snows, the driveway is usually covered in snow. If it needs to be repaired, you will not be able to spot the breakage. This will make the walk from your driveway to the front door difficult. Also, check all the outdoor stair railings. Make sure they are sturdy and not weak or broken at any point.
Remove the AC units
In order to stop cold air from entering the house through your AC vents, it is advisable to remove your AC units. If you can’t remove them, then cover the exterior with an insulating sheet.
Chimney and Heating System’s Maintenance
Get your chimney cleaned in the fall and put a cap on it to stop any unwanted critters from entering your home through the chimney. In the same way, furnaces and boilers should also be checked and cleaned before you turn on the heat in the winter.
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