As daylight saving time ends, it’s not just your clocks that need to be reset. Fall offers a great opportunity to tackle upkeep around the house to ensure your home runs efficiently and safely. Here are five essential home maintenance tasks to prioritize around the time change.
Home Maintenance Tasks
Change Smoke Detector Batteries
Smoke detectors are one of the most critical safety features in your home. Check the batteries in each device by pressing the test button and replace them if necessary. Smoke detectors save lives, so don’t risk being without functioning devices in your home.
Home Maintenance Tasks: Check Air Filters
Dirty air filters cause the HVAC system to run inefficiently and, because they cannot trap pollutants, can lead to respiratory problems. Before the cooler months arrive, clean or replace the air filters. This simple task boosts indoor air quality and keeps your heating bill down.
Clean the Gutters
Fall means falling leaves and, with that, clogged gutters. Clogged gutters allow rainwater to overflow and seep beneath roofing materials and under the siding, causing water damage, which can be costly to repair. Clean your gutters thoroughly and check for leaks. Functioning gutters direct water away from your home, preventing damage and mold growth.
Schedule Chimney Cleaning and Inspection
If you have a fireplace, schedule a professional chimney cleaning and inspection at least once a year. Creosote, a dangerous flammable byproduct of burning wood, builds up in your chimney over time, so have the chimney swept before cold weather arrives. A clean chimney is safer and more efficient. Neglecting this task can lead to a chimney fire or carbon monoxide buildup.
Fall Home Maintenance Tasks: Inspect Your Furnace
Before the cold weather arrives, have your furnace inspected by a professional. You don’t want to discover that your furnace isn’t working on the coldest night of the year. Invest in regular furnace maintenance to keep the furnace running optimally so you stay warm and comfortable all season.
While the time change may not seem significant, it’s an opportunity to tackle essential home maintenance tasks. These are just a few jobs that can save you time and money and protect your family’s health. Follow these tips to ensure your home runs efficiently and safely throughout winter.
Five Stars Home Inspection offers inspection services to customers in the Greater Boston area. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request an appointment.