As we head into the colder months, it is time to take stock of our homes and identify tasks that need to be completed before winter fully begins. Harsh temps can wreak havoc on houses and their components, but with a little preparation, you can ensure your home will make it through the cold safely. Here are some fall home maintenance tips to prep for the colder weather.
Clean Those Gutters
Cleaning your gutters while the weather is still mild is just good planning. Clear gutters make room for melting snow and ice that will inevitably come this winter. You do not even need special equipment or gear. A stable ladder, gloves, and an old plastic spatula work perfectly.
Check Your Fire Detectors
You should be checking your fire alarms every six months, but if you have not lately, now’s a great time. Change the batteries and do a test on each one. Also, make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector for each level of your home.
Store Your Outdoor Furniture and Equipment
Although most outdoor furniture is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, they will last longer and keep their look if they are stored for the winter. The same goes for items such as bikes and sports equipment. Make sure your garage or shed has ample space to pack everything up safely.
Change Your Furnace Filters
You should be changing your furnace filters monthly. However, fall maintenance is the perfect time to do a pre-winter change and give your furnace a cleaning. Many furnace companies have tune-up and cleaning specials around this time of year, so give one a call if you want a more professional treatment.
Test Your Winter Tools
No one wants to wake up to the first real snow of the season to a broken snowblower. Check your winter tools in the fall. Also, make sure you have a snow shovel, a container of gas, and bags of rock salt. Being prepared makes unexpected snowstorms easier to handle.
Use these fall home maintenance tips to get ready for winter.