10 Fall Maintenance Tips for Your Home
Fall can be both an enjoyable but messy time of year – leaves are falling, the temperature is getting colder and this means that your to do list is growing. Follow these tips in the fall to enjoy a safe and sound winter.
Rake the Leaves
While the falling leaves are beautiful, removing them can protect your lawn and prevent someone from slipping in case it is raining. Try to remove them on a daily basis as to cut down the amount of time it takes you.
Drain and Close Exterior Water Faucets
The last thing you want is to deal with a frozen pipe. This can be costly and can cause significant damage to your property. By closing the exterior faucets each year, you are protecting your property. As property managers, we offer this service to all of our home owners who have faucets outside.
Turn Off and Drain the Sprinkler System
If your property comes equipped with a sprinkler system, it is very important that it is drained. If it is not equipped with a drain, then you may need to have one installed. It is usually located at the lowest point but be sure to turn of the main water supply.
Replace HVAC Filter
Fall is a good time to replace the furnace filter. Keeping the filter clean and free of debris provides for better air quality in your house. Having a clean filter will also allow your furnace to run more efficiently and therefore reducing your monthly bills.
Check Weather Stripping and Insulation
If weather stripping has come loose, it can allow cold air to enter your property and your furnace will have to work harder to heat your home, will results in higher bills.
Patch Holes
Animals and insects are looking for somewhere warm to spend the winter. They can fit in miniscule holes that may lead into your property. Search your property for small holes that animals can get into and seal them properly.
Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Is it important to regularly test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors both for your safety and for the safety of your family. Smoke alarms should not be more than 10 years old and batteries should be replaced every year.
Trim Overhanging Branches
As we know, ice storms can happen and when ice forms on a branch, it can cause serious damage if it falls on a person. Each fall, walk through your front and back yard to identify potential hazards. If there are branches that have gotten out of control around power lines, then be sure to enlist the help of a professional.
Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Don’t wait to buy salt and deicing agent until it has snowed. Visit your local hardware store and stock up on these supplies so you don’t have to continually visit the store every other time it snows. Check your shovel to make sure it’s in good working order.
Have Your Fireplace Inspected
Having a safe fireplace is very important for your safety. Have your fireplace inspected and serviced each year to reap the rewards of having a beautiful fire place.
We wish you an enjoyable fall season!