🍂 Fall Maintenence Tips from Our Friends at Douglas Construction Group 🛠️
With cooler temps and falling leaves, the fall season is upon us! Don’t let those pesky leaves clog your gutters or cooler temps freeze your pipes - take the steps you need to prep your home for the fall now before it’s too late! Our friends at Douglas Construction Group have provided a trusted list of fall home prep tips that are sure to keep your home safe and comfortable through the cooler season.
CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS
SHUT OFF EXTERIOR FAUCETS, DRAIN & STORE HOSES
HAVE YOUR FURNACE INSPECTED - by a licensed and insured mechanical contractor
EXTERIOR INSPECTIONS - ensure that the grade around your home's foundation walls runs water away from your home
CHECK / CHANGE HVAC AIR FILTERS - should be done frequently (in some cases, monthly)
CHECK SUMP PUMPS FOR PROPER OPERATION – consider having your sump pump checked by a licensed plumbing contractor
CLEAR AREAWAYS, WINDOW WELLS AND ENSURE ANY EXTERIOR DRAINS ARE FREE AND CLEAR OF DEBRIS - this needs to be checked frequently
TEST CO / SMOKE DETECTORS FOR OPERATION - change batteries (if applicable)
FIREPLACE, WOOD BURNING – have professionally cleaned; ensure damper closes properly
HOT WATER HEATER – consider draining, remove sediment from bottom and refill (it is recommended to have this done periodically by a licensed plumbing contractor)
CHECK HUMIDIFIER FOR PROPER OPERATION – change filter annually
CHECK ALL EXTERIOR PENETRATIONS, INCLUDING AROUND WINDOWS AND DOORS - caulk and seal if needed
GARAGE DOOR - check for smooth operation & lubricate if necessary
TEST GFCI BREAKERS AND OUTLETS
Remember, homes are not waterproof, and typical reasons water penetrates a home include . . . improper grading, failed sump pumps, blocked window well and areaway drains, gutters and downspouts full or not draining.
Need a hand getting all of this done? Reach out to the Carolyn Homes Team - we have a list of trusted contractors who can help with any and all of your home project needs!
