Top Four September Home Maintenance Tips

With the end of summer comes a drastic change in temperature, and there are a number of things that you will want to start doing around your home and yard to get your property ready for the upcoming chills. 

Here is a quick checklist of some of the home maintenance chores that you should get a jumpstart on, before the first frost arrives:

1.  Get your HVAC System Ready 

First of all, it should go without saying that you should change your current air filter. As a matter of fact, conscientious homeowners do this at least once a month. Dirty filters make your air conditioner work harder to cool your home to your desired temperature, and this leads to higher electric bills and irreparable damages to the unit.

Also, before fall, be sure to vacuum out any pet dander and hair, as well as other dust, dirt, and debris that may clog your system. Then, once you believe that you have used it for the last time this season, power it down and winterize any of its outdoor elements accordingly.

Afterwards, check over your heating system (it may be the same system) before the start of the season for any routine maintenance issues. If you are unsure of what to inspect for, have a local professional come out and take a look at it before those chilly nights set in. 

2. Look Over your Windows

It is best to use storm windows in cooler weather because your home will be much better insulated from the outside. However, it is important that all windows have a seal around their parameters that is air-tight. These seals will separate each pane of glass and trap gases between them. This allows a break between the temperature inside your home and the colder temperature outside. If you see fog on your interior window, then one of the seals failed and you will need to get it fixed. 

Weather stripping around windows, and also doors, is also of the utmost importance. This is especially true if you have an older home and cold air is leaking in through small gaps. Patch any troublesome areas with either stripping or caulk. 

3. Clear your Gutters

Unless your gutters are encased and perforated like the newer models, keeping gutters free of debris will be a weekly chore throughout the autumn as leaves start to fall in earnest. Just remember, your roof may be overcome with rain if your gutters are blocked. After all, they are literally there to collect the rainfall and siphon it off the roof. 

And, if you live in an area with snowy winters, melting snow and ice will have nowhere to go and pile on your roof, making it vulnerable.

4. Clean your Fireplace and Chimney

It may seem early, but it is better to get your fireplace and hearth cleaned now so it is available when you need it.

You may still be experiencing sweltering days and balmy nights, but this weather will eventually give way to crisp autumn evenings when lighting up your fireplace will be a delightful treat. But, before you can even get that far, you will need to make an appointment to get your chimney swept of all the built-up soot from last season. Sweeping eliminates risks of chimney fires and dangerous build-ups of poisonous carbon monoxide in your home.

Smart Maintenance Means Fewer Repairs

No matter what the season, performing these maintenance tips will help keep your home systems and appliances in tip-top shape, extending their useful life and minimizing repairs.However, if you find yourself in need of a repair on an appliance, AC or any other home system, contact us today to schedule a service call if you are an existing customer. Or for new customers, please contact us for a quote on an easy and affordable home warranty!