As fall begins, the weather starts to change. While early fall is typically hot in California, mid-fall and late fall can sometimes feel like winter. It’s best to make sure your home is maintained before the cold starts to come.
Exterior maintenance includes inspecting windows and doors, checking for loose or damaged shingles, and unclogging gutters. Gaps in windows and exterior doors can bring cold drafts in, making your heater work overtime. Replacing worn weather stripping keeps drafts at bay and locks in the heat, lowering your utility bills. In some areas, autumn can bring heavy rain, which can leak through gaps or through loose or damaged roof shingles. Even if this isn’t the case where you live, clogged gutters can cause water to spill over to your roofline and foundation. When leaves fall or the wind blows debris, it can clog up the gutters. Make sure to clear out the gutters so the water flows freely. Catching potential vulnerabilities now prevents costly leaks down the line.
Make sure your equipment is working properly. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are fully operational. Safety should always be a priority, but these detectors are especially important if you plan to use your fireplace or heating system when temperatures cool down. Replace old air filters. Your HVAC, humidifier and air purifiers will be working overtime, especially if you’re planning to spend more time indoors. Swap out old filters for cleaner, more efficient airflow. Drain your water heater to clear sediment buildup.
There’s no harm in prepping for winter now, since winter comes just after fall. If you’re in an area that reaches freezing temperatures, be sure to have your shovels, rakes and other snow equipment somewhere easily accessible. Outdoor water fixtures won’t be of much use in freezing temperatures. Disconnect garden hoses, shut off the water supply to exterior faucets, and drain the remaining lines to prevent trapped water from freezing and cracking your pipes.
Photo by Autumn Mott Rodeheaver on Unsplash