Homeowners Fall To-Do List

   Fall has fell and colder temperatures are upon us. These quick and simple tasks will help your home going into the winter months.

Care for the Outdoors

Remember to bring any potted plants indoors before frost. Now is a great time to trim the dead branches out of trees. 

Replace HVAC Filter

It's important to keep the air in your home clean, especially when you will have all your windows shut. Typically, the HVAC Filter should be replaced every 1-3 months.  Now is also a great time to schedule a heating maintenance check up with your local HVAC contractor.  Get to it now before your stuck in the cold.

Keep the Cold & Critters Out

Caulk gaps and cracks in your homes siding and trim. This is a small fix that can keep out chilly drafts & pesky critters looking for a place to get comfy. Check your doors and windows. By taking care of any drafts from cracks or gaps, this is a huge simple saver on the energy bill in coming months. If you don't already have one install a chimney cap to keep unwanted animals from getting in.

Check for Water Leaks

Examine your faucets, drains, and toilets for leaks. Small trickles of water can increase your water bills yearly. By checking for leaks now, it will save you in the long run to ensure your pipes don't freeze.

Check the Fireplace

Do a visual inspection to make sure your fireplace is in good working order. If you haven't by now, give it a test run before winter. Schedule a chimney cleaning service to conduct a maintenance check and/or clean it out.

Clean the Water Heater

Drain the water heater, allowing ALL water to come out. Remove any build up due to sediment. A clean water heater now means no trouble when it's freezing outdoors.

Protect Outdoor Hoses & Spigots

Winterize hoses by disconnecting them from your spigots. Located shut off valves and turn off water to the outside faucet. After that, drain the exterior faucets until all water is out. Add protection from freezing by installing insulation sleeves that fit over the outside spigots. 

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Leaves & debris fall and get stuck in gutters and downspouts causing water to pool and damage your roof or siding in rain storms. Once most of the leaves have fallen, remove debris.

Stock Up on Winter Supplies Now

Prepare by making sure you have the tools necessary to survive winter: Stock up on ice-melt. Check condition of snow shovels and ice scrapers. Since you have them out, throw a blanket and ice scraper in your vehicle. 

Clean Dryer Vents

Help your dryer work more efficiently and prevent any possible fire hazard by removing lint build up in your dry hose.

Just a little cleaning and scheduled maintenance can make your home more healthy. By taking a little extra time now and making some simple fixes, you can ensure your house to be ready for the coming winter season.