Now that fall is here it’s time to get outside (while it’s still nice out) and prepare your home for colder temperatures. Most of these steps can be done yourself and will help to protect your investment, reduce energy loss and keep you comfortable.
Plumbing
Shut off and drain all outside water (Even if you have a frost-proof hose-bib!) Here’s how you do it:
1. Locate and turn off shut off valve located inside the house (usually right inside from the tap itself.)
2. From outside, open the tap to allow any water to drain
3. Disconnect and store garden hoses
Have any in-ground sprinkler pipes blown out
Sump Pump
Slowly pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to see whether the pump turns on. You should repeat this before the spring thaw.
Eaves and Downs
Make sure you remove all leaves and debris from the eavestroughs and downspouts after the leaves have fallen. This will allow for proper drainage and ensure water is carried away from the house. If needed, add extensions to downspouts so that water runs at least 3 to 4 feet away from the foundation.
HVAC
Boilers: Bleed valves on all hot-water radiators to increase heating efficiency
Furnaces: Clean or replace the filter for maximum efficiency and improved indoor air quality
Check all of the exhausts vents outside the house- particularly the dryer vents. Remove any lint. This is an important fire hazzard reduction measure.
Reverse ceiling fans to the clockwise position. This will blow warm air down.
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors by pressing the "test" button. Have extra batteries on hand.
Windows and doors
Check all the weatherstripping around windows and door frames for leaks to prevent heat loss and drafts coming in. Replace weatherstripping if necessary.
Replace all storm windows if you have them.
Fireplaces
Inspect your chimney: using a flashlight, look inside for build-up, bird's nests or obvious cracks. From the outside, check for broken bricks and crumbling mortar. Ensure that your damper opens and closes and seals tightly. Have your chimney professionally cleaned every other year.
Lastly,
Clean, winterize and store garden tools like mowers and leaf blowers. Set out salt and snow shovels to the front of the garage!
If you have any questions, concerns, or even better, want to get started on some new renovations or projects, feel free to get in touch!