The Fall season is the perfect time to button-up those final home maintenance projects before winter begins. Getting ahead of the winter weather will not only help make sure your home is ready to handle the cold season, but will also help conserve precious resources. Here are seven tasks you’ll want to finish before the snow starts to fall.
1. Winterize outside faucets and sprinklers. Your outside water hardware is unprotected from the elements and will freeze over the winter. Safeguard against weather damage and possible flooding by draining water from your spigot line. If your sprinkler system requires its lines to be blown out, contact a professional to safely winterize your irrigation.
2. Insulate exposed pipes. Freezing temperatures can cause exposed pipes to crack and release hundreds of gallons of water. Prevent major structural damage by insulating external pipes in your garage, crawlspace, and basement.
3. Test your sump pump. Sump pumps are the last line of defense against condensation buildup, floods, and water from drains. If your basement relies upon a sump pump, be sure to test it to make sure it works. Otherwise, you could end up with a flooded basement and foundation damage.
4. Schedule furnace or boiler maintenance. Professional maintenance and inspection by a home comfort specialist not only ensures your system will work when you need it most, but it also delivers crucial benefits such as lower heating bills and improved efficiency. A proper inspection will ensure your home is equipped with the quality heating it needs to fight off the coldest days of the winter season.
5. Seal windows and exterior doors. Check your windows and doors by opening and closing them. When you close them, do you notice a gap between the seals? Window and door gaps will cause a draft. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them up, or consider replacing the windows or doors if the problem is severe enough.
6. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested monthly. Twice a year (during daylight savings time as an easy reminder), change the batteries in all detectors and alarms to protect your home and family from fire.
7. Schedule a chimney cleaning and inspection. If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, be sure your system is cleaned and inspected annually. A professional chimney sweep has the tools and experience to thoroughly clean out fire hazards such as debris and creosote, and inspect the structure and lining for damage or deterioration.
HVAC Installation, Service, and Repair in NH and MA
Weatherproofing and preventative maintenance ensures the cold and wet will stay outside this winter, so you’ll stay warm and cozy all season long. Your home comfort specialists at Main Stream Mechanical are ready to help you in your preparations. Contact our technicians to schedule your HVAC maintenance and inspection today.