Fall Routine: Your to-do checklist
INSIDE
1) Check the heating and air conditioning: You’ll want to check the heating and ensure it is working properly before the temperatures start to cool down.
2) Freshen up the kitchen: Deep clean your kitchen, including cleaning the oven while you can still open up your windows, cleaning light fixtures, washing the garbage and recycling bins.
3) Replace the filter in your furnace: Clean up and replace furnace filters or heating systems. This’ll help your furnace work less hard and will save some energy. Also if you have a thermostat that is programmed to make sure the temperatures are set for the winter months.
4) Check and clean your humidifiers: Some furnaces have a humidifer built in, make sure you switch it for the winter months as you will need more humidty in the winter than you did in the summer. Also great tip and cooler temperatures are a great time to paint your home!
6) Attic insulation: Checking your attic insulation is properly installed – ensuring your vapor barrier is faced down and installed correctly will prevent it from trapping moisture that would cause water issues.
OUTSIDE
7) Inspect the chimney: Ensure your fireplace and chimney area are clean. Also check for wildlife as chimneys are a common warm place for animals to nest.
8) Clean your gutters: This means removing any leaves from your downpipes and gutters to prevent clogging.
9) Seal windows: Sealing your windows will help prevent any leaks and keep windows at their most insulated. Caulk the windows where they meet the exterior siding.
10) Repair the roof: Repairing a few shingles can help to restore the design and functionality of your roof. You can simply do it yourself if it’s a couple of fixes. If there’s more damage it might be a better idea to replace the entire roof.
11) Prepare your deck: Sweep your deck clean and wash it with soap and water. You’ll want to do a walkthrough checking for any pieces that might be rotting, warping, or missing any loose rails.
12) Check your carbon monoxide detector: You’ll want to make sure the detector is producing a high-pitched noise loud enough to hear in the event where you’ll need it. To test the carbon monoxide detector, press test. This will let you know if there’s enough electrical power from the device from the batteries or the outlet. Seasonal changes are a great time of year to check both Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detector, change batteries as well!
13) Add weather-stripping: Adding in weather-stripping around windows and door frames can help cut the energy costs by keeping things insulated and the cold air out in the winter.
14) Disconnect hoses: Ensure hoses are disconnected from faucets outside and turn the water off.
15) Install storm doors: Storm doors are functional in that they offer protection for exterior doors and come in stylish looks too!
Also Read: Winter Tires Required by Law on British Columbia Highways
GARDEN:
16) Fertilize the lawn: Taking some time to fertilize your lawn in the fall will help to strengthen your plants’ roots and give them a strong base.
17) Rake the leaves: Quick tip! Before you begin raking the leaves, it’s a good idea to lay out a tarp so you can rake the leaves right there. Rake one area of the yard at a time or directly into bags.
18) Check for pests: Look at what’s eating your plants and see if there are any pests you can get rid of.
19) Maintaining the garden: If you neglect your garden, weeds and pests may start to arise. Start by removing any dead mulch or perennials.
20) Clean your garden tools: Remove the dirt, soak them, rinse and dry. Cleaning your garden tools will knock off the dirt and have them ready come next spring.
These tips will get your home ready for the cold months. Check out this article for some steps to take on the other side of winter (in spring).
