End Of Summer Checklist For Your Home
It’s always sad to see the summer go, but as the heat begins to drop, it’s time to start thinking about getting your home ready for fall. In an area like Chilhowie, VA, we see all four seasons, and the weather can change quickly. Here’s a checklist that will help you get your home ready for the cold weather, and wrapping up the summer!
Change Your Air Filter
You’ve been using your air conditioning system all summer long, pumping air through the system. This means your air filter has been working overtime, trapping all the airborne irritants that make their way into your HVAC system.
It’s a good idea to replace this before you start using your heating system. A clean filter will help your HVAC system run efficiently, and clean the air in your home as well. We recommend changing your air filter every 2-3 months.
Check Your Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors
Safety first! Before the heating season begins, test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Replace the batteries if needed. If your heating system burns gas or oil, there are harmful gasses, like carbon monoxide, that can seep into your home if it’s not being exhausted properly.
First off, regular service should help you to avoid these kinds of dangerous leaks. But, just in case, you should have a carbon monoxide detector to alert you if there is a problem.
Clean Your Gutters/Yard
Fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris can clog your gutters, leading to water damage when the fall rains come. Take the time to clean out the gutters, and make sure that any fallen sticks/leaves in your yard are taken care of.
Especially if you have a yard that gets lots of leaves in the fall, doing this preliminary cleaning will make raking easier next season. You should also make sure no sticks or leaves have gotten into your HVAC system’s outside condenser.
Store Away Patio Furniture You Aren’t Using
If you have patio furniture that won’t be used during the colder months, now is the time to store it away. You may want to keep it out there for the fall, but just be prepared to bring it in once it gets colder if that’s the case.
You want to make sure your patio furniture is properly stored to ensure that it stays in good shape, prolonging its life.
Schedule HVAC Service
If you haven’t had your air conditioning system serviced at all this summer, end of the summer service is a good way to clean it up before you put it to sleep for the winter. Your HVAC technician will be able to change your filter, clean the components, and let you know if your system will be in need of any repairs or replacements for next summer.
Getting Ready For Fall: Cozying Up Your Home
Now that your summer tasks are wrapped up, you can also do a few things to get ready for the fall. Some of these things you can do on your own, and some others you’ll need to hire a professional.
Have Your Chimney Cleaned
If you have a fireplace, getting your chimney cleaned is important before you start using it. A clean chimney reduces the risk of fires and ensures that your fireplace is safe and ready for those chilly fall evenings. It also helps improve the air quality in your home.
Replace Summer Clothes With Cold Weather Clothing
Once the weather starts cooling off, you are going to want some warmer clothing in your wardrobe. Bring out your sweaters, jackets, and boots, and store your summer wardrobe in a cool, dry place. This is going to help you from cluttering up your closet, and making sure you have the appropriate clothes for comfort!
Use Throw Blankets For Chilly Nights
Curling up on the couch for some TV with a blanket and some popcorn is a great feeling. So bust out those throw blankets! As the nights get colder, a few throw blankets add a nice aesthetic, and also help you stay cozy on those chilly nights.
This is a great way to avoid turning up the heat as well.
Set Ceiling Fans To Clockwise
Did you know that your ceiling fan can help keep your home warmer in the winter? By setting it to rotate clockwise at a low speed, the fan will push warm air down from the ceiling, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
If you turn the fans up too high, it can cause a cool breeze though, and only make it chillier. Make sure your fan is at the proper low speed!
Schedule A Duct Cleaning
It’s impossible for you to clean the inside of your ducts. Dirt, dust, and debris can build up in your vents, and create unhealthy air quality.
A professional duct cleaning uses brushes and vacuums to get all those irritants out of your ducts, and makes the environment in your home cleaner and more comfortable.
Schedule A Heating Service
Your heating system should be serviced at least once, preferably before the winter. This will keep your HVAC system running smoothly. This helps improve energy efficiency, system lifespan, and ensures that your system is safe to run.