As the summer months come to an end, it is becoming evident that the fall season will be here before we know it. While many of us are excited for the pumpkin-spiced lattes and the falling leaves, it's crucial not to forget the practical side of the season's arrival. The fall is an essential time for homeowners to start preparing their homes for the colder months ahead. Proper fall home maintenance not only ensures your comfort during the winter, but it also safeguards your home from potential damage.
At ServiceOne, we are here to help you keep your home working as it should all year long. Below, we go over some essential tasks to add to your fall maintenance checklist this year.
Inspect and clean gutters
As leaves begin to fall, they can quickly clog your gutters and downspouts, leading to potential water damage. Make it a priority to clean out your gutters, ensuring water can flow freely. Not doing this can end up causing dams to form in the winter, which can end up causing water damage in your home.
Seal gaps and leaks
Are you noticing any drafts coming from your home’s doors and windows? These drafts can end up letting air into your home, which can result in higher heating and cooling costs. Be sure to check for drafts before the fall comes, and get any doors and windows sealed if you have to!
Heating system checkup
Before the cold snap hits, ensure your heating system is in tip-top shape. It might be wise to schedule a professional inspection to ensure everything is running efficiently. Clean or replace filters and consider upgrading if your system is outdated.
Prepare outdoor faucets
Frozen pipes can cause significant damage. Ensure that outdoor faucets are drained and turned off. Consider investing in insulating covers for outdoor taps and any exposed pipes.
Chimney and fireplace
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, ensure the chimney is cleaned and inspected for any obstructions or buildup. This will not only improve efficiency but also reduce the risk of chimney fires.
Check alarms and detectors
Ensure that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly. Replace batteries as needed. You'll likely be using your heating system more during the colder months, so it's essential to ensure these detectors are functional.
Winterize your AC unit
If you have a central air conditioning unit, it's wise to winterize it to protect it from the elements. Clean it, cover it and ensure it's ready to work when summer rolls around again.
Preparing your home for the fall and subsequent winter months might seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down step-by-step makes it manageable. By taking care of these maintenance tasks in the fall, you're not only ensuring the comfort and safety of your household but also potentially saving money on repairs and energy costs in the long run. Make sure to add these things to your fall maintenance checklist this year!
At ServiceOne, our service professionals are happy to help you with all of your fall home maintenance needs! Give us a call today with any questions you have!