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Interior and Exterior Maintenance Tips for Fall

September 18, 2018

With Fall just around the corner it’s time to get your house in shape for the cooler months ahead. Although autumn can be one of the busiest seasons for homeowners preparing for winter, it’s also the best time to take advantage of the moderate weather to repair any damages before the first frost sets in. Here are some interior and exterior home maintenance ideas that will keep your home running in peak condition all winter long.

INTERIOR

1. Because heating and cooling amount to 47% of the energy costs in your home, proper sealing and insulation can save up to 20% on your heating and cooling costs, or up to 10% on your total annual energy bill. It’s easy to find air leaks from windows and doors by moving your hand around the frame. By applying weather stripping and caulk to these areas, you’ll cut down on drafts.
2. Have your heating system checked by a licensed heating contractor. Heating systems will use fuel more efficiently, last longer and have fewer problems if properly serviced.
3. Maintain your washer and dryer. Cleaning out the dryer vents can be a DIY job, but if you don’t feel comfortable doing so (or if you’ve been putting it off), you may want to hire a pro to do washer and dryer maintenance for you. Washing-machine hoses need to be replaced from time to time, and a cracked hose can cause a leak — which can mean costly damage to your home. Plus, clean dryer vents and hoses will help your machine work more efficiently and reduce the risk of fire.
4. Get your woodstove and fireplace in working order. Be sure to examine your wood stove or fireplace insert’s door gasket for a tight seal. Also, clean and inspect the glass door for cracks and have the chimney cleaned by a licensed chimney sweep. A clogged chimney poses the risk of a chimney fire.
5. Change the direction of your ceiling fan to create an upward draft that redistributes warm air from the ceiling.
6. If Fall allergies have gotten the best of you, consider having your air ducts cleaned by a professional before winter sets in.
7. Test and change the batteries in your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors and keep extra household batteries on hand.
8. Check basement windows for drafts, loose frames or cracked panes.
9. Vacuum internal parts of air conditioners. Remove units from windows or wrap outside box with an approved tarp or plastic air conditioner cover in order to prevent rusting of vital parts.
10. Clean your humidifiers regularly during the heating season. Bacteria and spores can develop in a dirty water tank resulting in unclean moisture misting out into your room.

EXTERIOR

1. Check foundation for cracks and caulk around the areas where masonry meets siding, where pipes or wires enter the house, and around the windows and door frames to prevent heat from escaping.
2. Install storm windows and doors and remove screens. Before storing, clean and repair screens, spray with a protective coating and place in a dry area of the basement or garage. CLICK HERE for more interior and exterior maintenance tips.