YOUR OFFICIAL END-OF-SUMMER HOME CHECKLIST
While it’s nearly impossible to predict every catastrophic home maintenance event, keeping up with the major systems in your house is the best way to guard against minor and major issues like broken pipes, flooding, and fires.
As winter approaches, it’s important to protect your home against wind, rain, snow and colder temperatures — and the damage they may cause. Now is the time to move certain home maintenance items to the top of your list.
Chimney
the fireplace, as well, so give the area a thorough inspection. If you don’t use your fireplace, close the damper and block off drafts from the chimney. HVAC System Grab the vacuum and clean out all the vents and ductwork as far as you can reach with your hose. Also be sure to replace the furnace filter, which needs to be done every one to three months year round. Give your furnace a test run before the cold weather really
settles in. This is easy to do. Just crank up the heat and make sure it kicks on. If you use propane or oil for your heat, make sure to fill up your supply tanks early. Pack Up the AC If your air conditioning unit is separate from your centralized heating/cooling system, it’s time to disconnect it, clean it up, and/or put it in proper storage. Spray off the fan blades and condensing coils and let themdry thoroughly. Also, rinse filters and drain water collection trays. Window units allow for a
If you have a chimney or other venting system for a gas fireplace, wood-burning fireplace or woodstove, now is the time to inspect and clean it. Soot buildup can be a fire hazard. You may also have nests or other wildlife habitats blocking your ventilation. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure there are no cracks or gaps that need repair before you ignite the first flames of the season. This includes crumbling mortar inside
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