You may be ready for fall, but is your house prepared? These tips will help you get your home ready for the wetter autumn weather in style —and may save you some money too! Learn what projects will ensure your house makes a smooth transition from summer to fall.
Reprogram the Thermostat
Clean Your Furnace and Switch Out Your Filters
Check your furnace for soot, ignition problems, pilot light health and the state of other components to make your home ready for fall. Also, clean up dust and grime and arrange a professional inspection for anything that worries you. This is also a great time to switch out your filters, since clean air is important when the house is closed for winter. You may also need to winterize your outdoor air conditioner unit, depending on the type of system you have. This usually involves cleaning your coils and covering the unit to protect it from the elements.
Look for Gaps and Cracks in Your Insulation
Make your home fall ready and fix insulation issues before the cold weather arrives. Take a trip up to your attic/crawlspace during the day and look for rays of light in the corners. The only light should be coming from your attic vents and corners should be well-protected with insulation. And do the same thing with your ductwork. Have a partner shine a light in your vents and see if it shows any cracks while you watch from the crawlspace. Those cracks will cost you warm air!
Clean, Inspect and Prepare Your Fireplace
Is your fireplace and home ready for these colder months? Be sure to clean out your fireplace, check your chimney for blockages and make sure that your damper is working smoothly. If your chimney is coated in soot or forming tarry creosote residue, you will need to clean the chimneythoroughly to prevent fire hazards. For gas fireplaces, vacuum out any dust and check that the pilot light is properly turned on.
Switch to Warmer Bedding and Clothes
Bring out your seasonal bedding and clothing and pack up your summer wear for next season. Remember to keep your clothing somewhere safe from outdoor pests and extreme temperatures. It’s a good idea to do this early so you have a chance to wash and freshen winter items before using them.
Prepare Your Outdoor Furniture
Wash your outdoor furniture and bring in any sensitive cushions or fabrics to get your home ready for fall. This is true even for durable outdoor padding, as it can develop mold issues over wet seasons. If you get a lot of snow, consider storing chairs and tables in a shed for better protection. Remember, mosaic tables can be particularly vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Plus: Make your own durable PVC patio furniture
Insulate Pipes to get Your Home Ready for the Cold
When temperatures drop below freezing, standing water in your pipes can start to freeze. This can ruin valves and even crack brittle pipes, leading to leaks and water damage. If your pipes aren’t protected or you have installed new plumbing, you can get your home ready for the cold by insulating your pipes. This can be done with simple foam sleeves.
Written by: T. Lacoma