- Get Organized Inside! With cooler temps coming you will soon be spending more time indoors. This is a great time to clean and declutter! Swap out summer items such as clothing, summer linens and any unneeded seasonal items that could be stored away until next summer. Bring in warmer sheets, thicker quilts and cozy throw blankets to snuggle up with on the sofa.
- Change your batteries! Once a year you should check to make sure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide devices are working. Replace batteries for these items and any others such as flashlights, control panels for heat/air conditioning and garage door opener keypads.
- Make sure your heating system is in working order! Be proactive and schedule a professional inspection and servicing of your HVAC/furnace to ensure things are running smoothly for the upcoming cooler months. Be sure to change filters often and regularly.
- Check for drafts! Windows and doors may require some weatherstripping and caulk to seal any gaps. Maybe consider adding insulation to areas in your home that are currently inefficient. The goal is to keep things running efficiently and stay warm!
- Fireplace upkeep! Fall is the perfect time to get it ready for use. Have your chimney cleaned stock up on firewood and be sure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment. Sitting by a cozy fire with friends and family in the cooler months brings warmth and cheer!
- Inspect the exterior of your home! Clean gutters and downspouts, check your roof for damaged/missing shingles. Make sure outdoor lighting is working properly and timers are set appropriately.
- Drain outdoor faucets! Prior to the cold weather setting in, remove hoses from outdoor faucets. Then turn off the water valve inside that controls the water flow to outside faucets. Open the outdoor faucet so water can drain from the interior pipes. Leave it open all winter long to prevent any trapped water from freezing. Doing this could prevent a pipe from bursting or damaging the faucet itself.
Performing some basic fall maintenance preparations for your home will go a long way! Being prepared for the cooler seasons will help you avoid costly repairs and potentially even bigger problems down the road. Keeping your home safe and running smoothly will allow you to enjoy a cozy, worry-free fall season!