A Fall Maintenance Checklist: 7 Simple Tasks To Get Your Apartment Or House Ready For Cold Weather.
As autumn comes around, it’s important to prepare and protect your home for the colder months of the year. You can save on energy costs, avoid damage to your apartment or house, and maintain a comfortable living environment just by adding a few items to your to-do list.
Get Your Apartment or Home Ready For Colder Weather With This Checklist.
1. Seal Cracks Or Gaps In Windows And Doors
If you feel drafts of cold air blowing inside your home in the winter, you probably have old windows or doors that need replacing or weather-stripping. This also means your warm air is escaping, which can raise energy costs quickly. Make sure your windows are closed tightly and locked if possible. Layering window treatments and caulking gaps are just a couple of ways you can save on your electric bill and stay warmer at the same time. Any openings to the outside can also be a way for bugs and pests to get inside, so it is critical to make these repairs before it gets colder.
2. Change Your Air Filter Every 3 Months.
Most homes have HVAC systems for their heating and air that filter the air as it circulates. These filters work hard to prevent dust, dirt, and even pet dander from building up in the system. It’s important to replace the filters every 3 months to keep the system running efficiently. A dirty filter slows down the flow of air, making the system work harder and raising your electric bill. Over time, the filter will get clogged and could lead to expensive repair bills and even complete system replacement.
3. Use Smart Power Strips.
One of the easiest ways to save energy is by incorporating “smart” power strips into your electronics. Many appliances including smart TVs, laptop computers, and cable boxes constantly pull electricity when they are plugged into a traditional power strip, even if the item is turned off or in standby mode. Smart power strips cut the power off completely when they detect a device is in standby mode, conserving energy—and saving you money!
4. Check Your Smoke Alarms And Carbon Monoxide Detectors.
It is recommended to check both your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly, so be sure to give them a look while you make your way around the house. Be sure the batteries and the alerts are working in case of an emergency.
5. Stock Up On Essential Supplies Like Firewood, Batteries, And Flashlights.
It’s a great idea to stay stocked up on emergency supplies in case of a power outage or storm. This important tip is applicable throughout the year. Be sure to have plenty of food and water on hand. You’ll want to be able to provide some type of heat as well. An emergency generator or firewood is always good to keep stored.
6. Reverse The Direction Of Your Ceiling Fans.
Did you know that reversing your ceiling fan will push warmer air down and help circulate it through the room? This can be a big help in warming your whole house as well as reducing your energy costs. You can change the direction with the flip of a switch.
7. Insulate Bare Pipes Or Spouts.
As winter approaches and outside temperatures get colder, water can start freezing. Make sure any of the pipes or spouts that you can access from outside or even in the attic are covered and kept warm. Frozen water expands, which puts those pipes at risk of bursting. You can buy insulation sheets, canned insulation spray, or pre-made spout covers to wrap around them at a local home improvement store.
Acceptance Insurance Is Here To Help
Not only does Acceptance Insurance offer renters insurance and homeowners insurance, but our agents can assist you in finding the best plan to cover your home through every season. Contact one of our knowledgeable agents today to talk about your specific coverage needs or get a no-hassle, free insurance quote online!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is Home Maintenance Important?
Following a fall home maintenance checklist is important for keeping your apartment or house in good condition and preventing potential problems and issues. By regularly maintaining your home, you could also avoid more serious and expensive repairs down the road.
How Much Does Seasonal Maintenance Cost?
The cost of seasonal maintenance depends on the size of your home and what needs to be done. Some tasks, like changing the direction of your ceiling fan, can be done easily and at no cost.
What Maintenance Should Be Done Year-Round?
Some maintenance tasks should be done year-round in the home, such as regularly changing the air filter in your HVAC and using energy-efficient light bulbs. These simple tasks will help keep your home running smoothly to avoid more serious issues down the road.
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