You can keep your home in tip top shape with simple tasks throughout the year. Here is a a check list for the month of October for you to maintain you home. The weather is changing and you need to make sure that your home can withstand what winter has in store. its time to start winterizing and checking for leaks and protecting one of the biggest investments you have. This list is in no way exhausted but gives you a well rounded look at items you should be paying attention to.
The month of October is known as fire safety month so lets talk about that fire place we plan to snuggle in front of as the days get colder. If you happen to have a fire place, regardless of the type of furnace, some maintenance procedures are universal.
• Replace or clean furnace filter
• Check the draft hood for discoloration, soot, dust.
• Check the flue for deterioration, white marks, rust.
• Check the chimney for blockage, broken mortar, crumbling bricks.
• Keep the furnace motor oiled. Check the belt — it's easy to replace.
• Close fireplace damper when not in use.
• Install Chimney screen to block leaves.
Safety concerns: Never store items near a heater. A pilot with a yellow flame may require adjustment by a contractor. Call for help if you experience carbon monoxide poisoning (headache, chest tightness, burning eyes, weakness, vomiting, dizziness, loss of muscular control).
To prepare for the harsh winter months you should trim your trees and clean you gutters. Check the condition of steps, rails and siding, as these can become a safety hazard. Prepare you garage by checking for cracks and filling or resealing as needed. Put a plan in place to keep snow and Ice away from Garage door. Also remember to drain the gasoline from lawn mowers (who's going to be mowing the lawn right?) Don't forget to drain outside faucets and winterize your sprinkler system.
You can also
•Pass a lit candle around doors and windows to check for drafts. Weather strip as necessary.
• Replace worn weather stripping and caulk
• Replace old windows or install plastic window seal
• Attach draft stoppers to doors.
• Hire a contractor to perform blower test to find leaks
• Install foam gaskets behind wall switch plates.
• Close crawlspace vents in summer and winter.
• Hire professionals to clean, check heating system. its recommended you hire a professional for this
• Drain approximately 2 gallons from water heater to eliminate sediment.
• Replace/Clean filters including those in the kitchen exhaust fan
•Use a setback thermostat.
• Set ceiling fans to blow upward. Reverse your ceiling fans to help blow warm air down from the ceiling throughout the room.
• Check for adequate insulation in the floor, wall, and ceiling.
• Cover your air conditioner and/or remove any window units