Winterize your home
Don’t wait until it begins to snow to winterize your home. Fall is the optimal time to prepare your home for the winter, and here are five things to check off of your list:
- – Prepare your heating and AC systems. Check and replace the air filter for your heater, and inspect and clean out heating vents. Clean out and cover the air conditioning condensing unit for the season.
- – Inspect the fireplace system. Inspect the damper to make sure it can be opened/closed and locked/unlocked properly. Have your chimney cleaned by a professional. Repair any open mortar joints in the fireplace firebrick.
- – Check your insulation situation. Major insulation updates should be made in warmer weather, but you can seal off unused fireplaces and insulate exterior outlets and hot water heater in the fall. Check for drafts and air leaks in windows and doors throughout your home for any issues.
- – Survey your home exterior. Hire a professional or inspect your roof yourself for any damaged or missing shingles, clogged gutters and potential sources of leaks. Ensure your sprinkler system is drained and shut off for the winter to prevent frozen water getting trapped and cracking water lines.
- – Assess your yard. Clean, seal and/or stain any concrete or wood decks to help prevent further damage from the cold. Clean, cover and properly store any patio furniture, grilling equipment and yard tools.
Information from thespruce.com