As the crisp air starts rolling in and the leaves begin to change, it’s the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for the fall season. Whether you're settling into a new house or prepping for a potential sale, a little maintenance now can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Here are eight essential tips to keep your home cozy, safe, and efficient as temperatures drop.
- Seal Any Air Leaks
Keep the chill outside where it belongs! Inspect windows, doors, and any other potential draft sources. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps and prevent warm air from escaping, which will help lower your heating bills. - Check Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Take a good look (or have a professional inspect it) for missing, loose, or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks during fall rainstorms. Better to fix it now than deal with a surprise drip during a cozy evening in! - Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves are beautiful, but they can wreak havoc on your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, so be sure to clean them out and check that downspouts are directing water away from your foundation. This simple task can prevent a host of expensive problems later on. - Check Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With heaters and fireplaces working overtime, fall is a great time to ensure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. Test each unit and replace batteries as needed. A quick check could make all the difference in keeping your family safe. - Adjust Your Thermostat
Programmable thermostats are a great way to save on energy costs. Set it to lower temperatures when you’re away from home or asleep, and schedule a warm-up before you wake up or return home. This keeps your house comfortable without running up your heating bill. - Have Your Furnace Inspected
Your furnace will soon be working hard to keep your home warm, so it’s wise to have it inspected and tuned up by a professional. A quick service call can help improve efficiency, catch potential issues, and ensure your system is ready to run all season long. - Check Your Air and Water Filters
Air filters in your HVAC system should be changed regularly to keep the air in your home clean and your system running efficiently. Don’t forget about water filters, too—checking these now ensures clean water for cooking, drinking, and heating. - Drain Your Water Heater
Sediment can build up in your water heater, making it work harder and less efficiently. Draining it once a year is a good practice, and fall is an ideal time to get it done. This will help extend the life of your water heater and ensure you have plenty of hot water as the weather cools down.
Taking these steps now will not only help you stay comfortable and safe but also protect your home’s value. Whether you’re planning to stay for the season or thinking about making a move, Reserve 76 Realty is here to help you every step of the way. Ready to take the next step in your home journey? Reach out to us today!
