The leaves and temperatures are falling and before you know it, the snow will be too. It seems as though Christmas carols and perfectly wrapped gifts are just around the corner. With Fall quickly coming to an end, it's time to make sure that your home is ready for the winter ahead. Here are some suggestions for the homeowner!
1. Clean out the gutters.
Sorry leaves, but you can't stay here!
2. Weather-stripping and caulking windows.
Keep that cold air outside where it belongs!
3. Clean out chimney and/or change filters for heating/cooling unit.
Did anyone else start mentally singing "Chim-chimney chim-chimney chim-chim-cheree?"
4. Change smoke detector batteries.
Did you know that smoke detectors should be tested once a month and the batteries changed 2x/year? Let's cross November off the list!
5. Wrap any exposed pipes.
Who has time for frozen and busted pipes? Pick up some heat tape before it's all sold out!
6. Shut off exterior drains.
Planning on washing the car or the dog outside any time soon? Didn't think so.
7. Trim those trees.
Snow covered branches look beautiful... until they've fallen on your house.
8. Change direction of ceiling fan.
Having the fan spin clockwise helps to push the warm air that's risen back down for efficiency.
9. Inventory snow equipment.
Need a new shovel? Or want some salt on hand? Now's the time to go to the hardware story.
10. Clean and put away summer equipment.
Goodbye Lawnmower, we'll see you in the Spring.
What other tasks do you do to prepare your home for the winter?