by: Shane Lovering, New Homes Specialist
Fall is here and winter is approaching, and with the forecast showing some mild weather days ahead now might be a good time to get outside and button up the yard for its winter slumber, as well as prepare the interior of your home for its annual cold-weather transition.
Being proactive might save much hassle and headache. We would do well to heed the ancient proverb that states, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Who wants to be the one driving to the convenience store at 11:30 at night for one 9-volt battery for an incessantly chirping smoke detector, or picking themselves up from the cold, ice-laden concrete, only to find that gutter downspout has been kicked into the window well?
With these mini disasters and more in mind , we have compiled our Annual Fall Checklist to ensure a warm and safe Fall and Winter season.
Exterior:
- Arrange to have the underground sprinkler system in your yard winterized.
- Remove the hose from the hose bib on the house so it doesn’t freeze and break the pipe inside the wall.
- Check vents for wasp nests that can block the pipes for the furnace. Our Warranty Manager Darian says, “I have seen several pipes totally blocked by a nest this year.”
- Aerate and fertilize the lawn.
- Fertilize plants and spray for bugs before they go dormant
- Cut back perennials, but wait as long as you can to that they may store up nutrients for the winter
- Spray for spider control
- Declutter your gutters, and install gutter guards
- Check all downspouts and extensions to ensure they are attached properly and directing water appropriately
- Tune up or replace that snowblower or snow shovel
Interior:
- Replace furnace filters and have enough on hand to get through until spring
- Replace all 9 volt batteries in the smoke detectors
- Check doors and windows to make sure they seal well, and repair or replace seals as needed
- Have your furnace and tankless water heater serviced
- Reset your programmable thermostat to reflect the colder season
- Stop by 1748 Front street for some of Kelly’s famous chili and cornbread
- Light the pilot on your gas fireplace
- Reverse your ceiling fan direction. According to Energy Star, you should reverse the fan motor to run clockwise and “operate at low speed to produce a gentle updraft, which redistributes warm air near the ceiling down into your living space.”
- Replace“dead” light bulbs
- Stock on winter pantry staples
