As the weather turns colder, there are a few easy things you can do around the house to stay comfortable, save money, and protect your investment.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
During the summer, your fans blow down and cool the room. In the winter they should turn the opposite direction to pull air upward and create an updraft, especially in rooms with high ceilings.
Clean and Inspect Heating System and Fireplace
You’ll want to bring in a professional to clean and inspect your forced-air furnace, heat pump, wood stove, or pellet stove. Service should include removing chimney soot and creosote accumulation (this usually requires a chimney sweep). Finally, check your fireplace flue for a proper seal.
Check Your Roof
Remove moss from shaded areas, clear debris from corners, and repair or replace damaged shingles as needed. Also, inspect rubber flashing on exhaust vents for cracks and carefully replace.
Clean Gutters Regularly
Leaves and debris from nearby trees can clog your gutters. Schedule a time every other week to check and clean them. Preemptive cleaning now will prepare your gutters ready for winter rains.
Remove Hoses and Turn Off Outside Water
Once you’re done using garden hoses for the year, remove them from outside faucets. Drain thoroughly, then store in a shed, overhang, or garage. And ensure that your outside faucets are turned off completely.
Depending on your region and climate, you may want to install exterior faucet covers to protect against frozen pipes. And find your main water shut-off valve now should you need to access it when the nasty weather strikes.
Check Attic and Crawlspace
Inspect for unwanted critters, foundation cracks, mold, standing water, and ducting that’s come loose. Address any issues as needed. And remember to close foundation vents o keep water or freezing air from entering your crawlspace.
Install Fresh Batteries in Detectors
Fall is a great time to install new batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. While some units come with 10-year batteries, use this time to test them. Also, check to see that all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
Inspect Windows and Doors for Drafts
The likely culprits will be cracked or worn caulking and weather stripping. Remove old caulking and replace if necessary. Add weather stripping to the bottom and sides of exterior doors as needed, and check for drafts around electrical outlets and switches on exterior walls.
Prepare Yard for Cold Weather
As the weather cools, the roots of your grass grow deeper, making fall a smart time to apply fertilizer. Prune all dead limbs on trees, and ensure no plants and shrubs are touching any part of your house.
Inspect Front Entry, Walkways, and Porch
Repair any uneven surfaces, fasten loose boards, and repair cracked or broken concrete before the elements make things worse.
Get More Done With Help from Rivermark
When you’re facing a major home expense like a new furnace or costly roof repair, we can help. Ask about a Home Equity Loan and Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) at any branch, or give us a call at 503.626.6600.
