Fall is the perfect time to get your home ready for the upcoming cold weather. There are a number of steps you can take to make your home more comfortable and to help lower your utility costs.
Taking the time to make the investment now will certainly pay off during the frigid winter months. Here are some home projects to do before winter, while there is still time.
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Check Your Heating System
A heating system inspection and tune-up are recommended yearly to make sure everything is functioning properly, as well as to ensure filters and ducts are clean.
You don’t want to skip this appointment. It could save you money in the long run by ensuring your system is running efficiently.
It also has the potential to avoid physical harm that could come from malfunctions or built-up debris.
An annual inspection might also prevent your furnace from breaking down on the coldest day of the year.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
One of the easiest ways you can prep for winter is simply to reverse the setting on your ceiling fans.
Running the fan in a counterclockwise direction helps to push heat down into your rooms. This simple step can improve your heating system’s efficiency and keep you cozier this winter.
Check Out Your Roof
Now is a good time to take a look at the condition of your roof. Damaged or missing shingles can cause leaks during winter storms.
It’s best to take care of them now before the freezing temperatures arrive.
You also want to inspect for any cracks or breaks in the seals surrounding vents and chimneys in order to keep the heat from escaping.
Clean the Gutters
If there are leaves and other debris in your gutters, this could cause a lot of difficulties this winter. Clogged gutters can lead to leaks and ice dams, as well as damage to your roof and siding.
Getting professional gutter cleaning in Charlottesville, or wherever you live, is well worth the investment because it can save you a great deal of money and headache down the line.
You don’t want to face repairs to the exterior of your home due to leaks that could have been prevented.
Check Downspouts
Downspouts are meant to divert water away from the house. They help to avoid cracks in the foundation or other types of exterior leaks.
You want the water to run at least three or four feet away from your home. You may need to add extensions to your downspouts to accomplish the proper flow.
These are inexpensive parts you can find at most hardware stores.
Caulk Windows and Doors
Gaps between your window or door frames and the siding can allow a lot of air to escape, leading to inefficient heating and higher utility bills.
If you don’t want to literally throw money out the window, there’s a fairly easy fix. Look for gaps wider than a nickel and then get ready to seal them up easily with caulk.
Weatherstripping can also be added to reinforce seals and keep everything well-insulated.
Test Your Sump Pump
Your sump pump helps to avoid flooding in the basement. It can’t do its job if it’s not working properly. The only way to know how it’s currently functioning is to test it.
You can easily do this by slowly pouring buckets of water into the sump pit, then waiting to see if it turns on.
You should do this test every few months in order to know your system will function adequately when needed.
Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Now is the time to make sure you have everything you need for snow removal and safety. Check your supply of salt or ice melt. Are all your shovels in good working order?
Do you have a snowblower? If you do, check to make sure it’s in good working condition. Perhaps now is the time to invest in one if you don’t.
Keep these steps in mind to prepare your home before winter. You’ll be glad you took the time and made the investment.
Some simple preparation can save you a great deal of money, time, and frustration during the coldest months of the year. Your home and your sanity are worth it.
