After tackling exterior fall home maintenance, it’s time to turn your attention to your home’s interior. There are a number of interior projects that need attention before the temperature plummets.
Weather Stripping – Each entrance to your home is essentially a “system” that is comprised of the door itself, the threshold and weather stripping that seals the space between. Not only does it minimize drafts, it helps you save money on those utility bills. Don’t overlook the importance of well-maintained weather stripping materials, especially when it comes to ensuring energy efficiency in your home. Consider weather stripping the windows as needed as well. Speaking of windows, don’t forget to lower/install storm windows as well as lock all of your windows to ensure the tightest wind and weather-proof seal.
Sump Pumps – Some homes are prone to water accumulation in the basement, oftentimes the result of heavy rainfall or during a thaw when there is a significant amount of snow on the ground. Basically, a sump pump uses specialized sensors to detect and collect water in a basin in the basement which is then pumped out and away from the house. Homeowners with sump pumps should consider having a second pump installed next to it, or have an extra battery back-up pump (ideal for when the power goes out), in case the first one fails or burns out. Be sure to test both pumps to ensure that the valve is functioning and they are in good working order.
Heating System Maintenance & Duct Cleaning – Be sure to schedule an annual inspection and maintenance of your heating system to ensure it’s in good working order. You wouldn’t want to find out that the furnace isn’t working when it’s 15 degrees outside. Fall is also the ideal time for duct and vent cleaning. If you’re looking for eco-friendly solutions to pathogenic problems in the home, we offer duct cleaning and other services through our environmental services partner.
Smoke/CO Detectors – With October being Fire Prevention Month, it’s the ideal time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless and deadly gas. You should have these detectors on every level of your home and near all sleeping areas. If your smoke and CO detectors are 10+ years old, it’s time to replace them. Consider updating them to combination smoke & CO detectors. Need more info about smoke and CO alarms? Visit the National Fire Protection Agency’s website.
Our award-winning Hired Hands crew can help with many of your home maintenance and fix-it jobs – from gutter and duct cleaning to repairing decks, stairs and more. For home improvement and maintenance solutions, leave it to our expertly skilled and fully licensed professionals. Call or email us for an estimate.