Today is the first day of Fall, and the weather has already been crisp for a few days in our region. With more cooler temps on the horizon, now is the time to prep your home for the season ahead.
1. Air Flow:
Most professionals recommend getting your heating and air systems checked semi-annually, and maintained systems typically will have a longer life expectancy. This is also a great time to change and order more filters for your home to prepare for winter. Having a heating system break in the winter may be prevented if it is properly serviced.
Additionally, switch your ceiling fans to a clockwise direction to increase warm air flow.
2. Keep Cold Air Out:
Seal it Up - To keep heating bills lower and not overwork your system, take the time to check and install weathering strips where needed. Also touch up caulk around baseboards and windows. If you have any exterior wood on your home, caulk, paint and seal it to help prevent rotting and the elements out.
Insulation - Ensure air isn't getting in through your attic or basement by installing and replacing old insulation.
3. Moisture is not your friend:
Water that gets into the cracks in your driveway and foundation in the winter months can freeze and lead to the expansion of the split, which in turn causes further damage to your concrete.
It is also crucial to winterize outdoor areas that contain water such as your irrigation system, exterior spigots, and pool. If left untreated, you can cause major damage to the pipes and pumps connected to the systems. If exterior spigots aren't winterized, water may get trapped in the spigot and freeze, potentially bursting the pipes inside your house walls. This causes it to leak inside your walls, equaling costly damages.
4. Fire Preparedness:
Have a wood fireplace? Fall is a great time to buy and stock up on fire wood.
Also perform a check of and replace batteries on carbon monoxide and fire detection alarms.
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