Shorter days and colder temperatures have made their way to the Queen City, which means that winter has arrived. With the change of each season comes a reminder of a new set of home maintenance tasks to check off the to-do list. Homeowners should prepare their homes and yards for the freeze of winter and hopefully this list will serve as a guide through those projects and beyond.
Winter Outdoor Updates
Now that the warm summer days are over, most people will be spending much more time inside their homes than out. Keep this in mind when cleaning up your outdoor living areas. This is the time to stow away lawn mowers, outdoor power tools, water hoses, and other items that might not be getting much action for the next few months. Also remember to shut off any water systems like fountains, in case of a freeze. This is the time to get your roof inspected, cut limbs near power lines, refinish your deck, and tackle other off-season responsibilities.
Odds and Ends
One of the easiest things to do at the change of a season is to run through a quick list of small to-do’s around the house. These tasks should be done regularly throughout the year, so a new season is the perfect reminder to do so. Check the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries where needed, dust ceiling fan blades, reverse fan blade direction to counterclockwise, and clean bathroom vents. That fresh sense of safety and circulation will help you feel ready to take on winter at home. It’s also a great time to find or purchase a snow shovel, ice scrapers, and/or ice melts.
Heating and Water
It’s time to get your heating system ready for its busiest season. Replace your HVAC filter and if necessary, get the system serviced to ensure optimal performance for the upcoming cold temperatures. Check your pipes for proper insulation and locate your water shut-off valve in case of a pipe freeze. Locating these items now will help you better prepare for the winter and whatever cold it brings. Before your first fire of the season, make sure you test your fireplace flue for a tight close and call your local chimney sweep for any necessary cleaning.
Keep these maintenance tips in mind throughout the year in order to avoid unexpected projects from arising this winter. If some of these tasks seem daunting, you can always hire a “pro” to help you. If you are in need of a great local reference to get the job done, we are happy to recommend local vendors for your specific project and area of town. Once your checklist is complete, take some time to get your home in the holiday spirit with tips from our past blog on home decor inspiration.