You might have noticed the cooler weather that has visited Sedona.
Your home also feels these changes in temperature and weather conditions.
These changes, along with aging, and of course human neglect can negatively affect your home, and it’s important to take the time to perform the necessary maintenance to keep your home running smoothly.
Now is a great time to get outside, while it’s still warm, and do the necessary fall home maintenance to keep you warm and happy all winter long.
Here are a few extra steps you should take to keep your home in top shape.
Guarantee Your Heat
Schedule an inspection and service of your furnace or heat pump to be sure the system is clean and ready to keep you warm this winter. Plus, it’s a good time to change out your filters.
Avoid Winter Drafts
While you may not have noticed your air leaks during the hot summer months, you’ll definitely notice the chill up your spine when cold drafts seep into your home. Inspect all of your windows, doors, and exterior walls for gaps or missing weather stripping and chalk as needed.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
If your ceiling fan has a reverse switch, Energy Star says reversing the fan will produce an updraft and push down the heated air from the ceiling.
Check the Roof and Gutters
Look for damaged, loose or missing shingles that may leak during winter’s storms or from melting snow. You’ll also want to clean and flush the gutters. Gutter back up from leaves can wreak havoc on your roof, siding and wood trim.
Find Those Cracks
Check your home from the roof to your foundation, searching for any cracks that could cause problems down the road. Pay close attention to the caulk along window joints, where concrete meets siding and around pipes and electrical wires where they enter your home.
Stop the Flow of Water
Drain the water from your exterior water pipes to prevent the water from freezing and your pipes bursting as the ice expands. If you have a lawn irrigation system, have a professional drain that as well.
Empty the Dryer Vent
Vacuum all the accumulated lint from your dryer vent and hose. This can save you both money and possibly your life as the lint can be a fire hazard and also reduce the efficiency of your dryer.
