10 Tips to Prepare for the Fall Season

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

To help keep small issues from turning into bigger disasters, inspect your roof using binoculars, to check for damaged or missing shingles.

Coolers days, crisp air, and changing colors make fall a fan favorite when it comes to the changing seasons in Mercer and Lawrence County, Pennsylvania. While you are out leaf peeping, enjoying apple cider and donuts, and picking pumpkins, your home will also need some attention to ensure it's ready for the cold weather on the horizon. The weather can change quickly, and a bit of preparation now could save you from aggregation and costly repairs later.

Below are 10 tips for you to consider when preparing your home for fall.

1. Reprogram the thermostat

Keep the house warm when people are active, but do not be afraid to lower the temperature when the family is sleeping or at work/school for the day.

2. Remove air conditioner(s)

If you do not have the luxury of central air conditioning, be sure to remove any window units you placed in the windows over the hot summer. This will eliminate the cooler air from entering your home, causing your heating source to work harder.

3. Close the pool

If you have a pool and close it when the temperature drops, schedule a service or if you are handy, buy the supplies and do it yourself.

4. Clean your furnace and replace the filters

Check your furnace for soot, and pilot light health. This is also a great time to switch out your filters; clean air is important when the house is closed for winter.

5. Inspect your fireplace and have it cleaned

If you have a fireplace and plan on using it as the weather turns colder, have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional.

6. Insulate your pipes for the winter

As temperatures drop below freezing, standing water in your pipes can start to freeze. By adding foam covers you can help insulate and protect your pipes.

7. Clean and prepare your outdoor furniture

Clean and store seasonal outdoor furniture in a safe place. Cover with a tarp to protect it from snow, ice, and cold. If you have removable cushions, consider storing them indoors to help them last longer.

8. Check your water heater

Your water heater has a lot of work to do in fall and winter. If you have not inspected your water heater lately, it may be time to clean it out or have it serviced. Overtime, it can get loaded with sediment, or other problems may arise that reduce its efficiency.

9. Inspect your rook for leaks

There is nothing worse for a homeowner than a leaking roof. To help keep small issues from turning into bigger disasters, inspect your roof using binoculars, to check for damaged or missing shingles. Also make sure your gutters are flowing freely of sticks and leaves.

10. Turn off outdoor faucets and store hoses

Disconnect and drain any outside hoses you have used over the spring/summer to water gardens and lawns. Shut off exterior faucets to help prevent frozen pipes if a deep freeze were to occur in your area.

If you need help preparing your home for fall, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties! We specialize in repairing and restoring fire and water damage. But we also can clean air ducts, repair roofs, and offer quality construction services.

Call us today if you need our help! (724) 704-8939.

Follow us on Instagram.