As the vibrant hues of summer fade into the golden tones of fall, homeowners in the Northeast must gear up for a new season of home maintenance. The transition to cooler weather brings a unique set of challenges, from ensuring your home is warm and cozy to safeguarding it against potential damage from falling leaves and impending winter storms. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare your home for the fall season.
Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves can quickly clog your gutters, leading to water overflow and potential damage to your home’s foundation and roof. Here’s what you need to do:
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Clear Debris: Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from gutters and downspouts.
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Check for Damage: Look for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, leaks, or loose connections.
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Ensure Proper Drainage: Make sure downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation.
HVAC System Maintenance
A well-maintained HVAC system ensures efficient operation and a cozy home throughout the fall and winter:
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Change Filters: Replace the air filters in your HVAC system to improve efficiency and air quality.
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Schedule an Inspection: Have a technician inspect and service your furnace or heat pump.
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Test Thermostats: Make sure your thermostats are working correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable model for better energy management.
Chimney and Fireplace Preparation
If you have a fireplace, preparing it for use is essential for safety and efficiency:
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Clean the Chimney: Hire a professional to clean your chimney and check for blockages or damage.
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Inspect the Fireplace: Check the damper and firebox for signs of wear or damage.
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Stock Up on Firewood: Ensure your firewood is dry and stored properly.
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With increased use of heating systems and fireplaces, it’s crucial to ensure your home’s safety devices are functioning:
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Test Detectors: Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries as needed.
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Replace Old Detectors: If your detectors are more than ten years old, consider replacing them.
Winterize Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems
Prevent freezing and potential damage to your outdoor water systems:
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Drain and Disconnect Hoses: Remove hoses from outdoor faucets, drain them, and store them indoors.
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Insulate Faucets: Install foam covers on outdoor faucets to protect against freezing.
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Winterize Irrigation Systems: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to drain and prepare your irrigation system for winter.
By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure your home is well-prepared for the fall and the colder months ahead. Regular maintenance not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and coziness of the fall season in the Northeast.
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About Coldwell Banker Lifestyles: Coldwell Banker Lifestyles is a top 10 real estate firm in New Hampshire and joined the Coldwell Banker brand in 2016, and is a member of the prestigious Coldwell Banker Chairman’s Circle as one of the top Coldwell Banker affiliated companies in the world. With approximately 150 real estate sales professionals in 10 offices throughout New Hampshire and Vermont, we are committed to providing exceptional service guiding buyers and sellers to successful real estate transactions.
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