BBB Tips for Preparing your Home for Fall and Winter
As much fun as summer can be, it has to end at some point. As the trees begin to change and the weather shifts from hot and humid to cool and crisp, it’s time to accept that fall has arrived once again. Whether you’re sad to see the sweltering weather end or are looking forward to unpacking your favorite cold weather clothes, there’s a lot to do to get ready for the changing seasons.
While the weather during the fall in much of the South Carolina remains tolerable for outdoor activities, winter temperatures will be here before you know it. With these helpful tips, you can easily ready your home for fall, and the colder temperatures to come.
Check Your Doors and Windows
Did you know that one of the best ways to waste energy is to leave gaps and cracks in your doors and windows? Every year, millions of Americans spend far more than they need to on their heating bills, simply because their home isn’t energy efficient. Before the cold weather sets in, put up storm windows, and seal cracks around windows and doors with caulk and tape to make sure the cooler months are as comfortable as possible.
Clean Out Your Gutters
As the leaves begin to turn, you know you’re only weeks away from them falling off entirely and stopping up your gutters. Before you find yourself with a big mess on your hands, take the time now to clean out your gutters and drainpipes to prevent the possibility of water damage and clogs. A clean early in the season may not suffice through the winter, but it will make sure you’re prepared for the harsher weather to come.
Make Sure Your Heater is Ready for Anything
Even in the South Carolina, heat is a necessity in the winter. The last thing you want is to turn on your thermostat on the first frosty night, only to find yourself with no heat. Make sure your vents are clean, your filters are in good condition, and your heater is in good working order. This may be a job you can do at home, but if you aren’t sure what to look for, enlisting the help of a professional may be in your best interest.
Take a Look at Your Fireplace
When the weather gets cooler, nothing is quite as inviting as a warm fire. When your flue isn’t clean, however, you may be facing bigger issues. Before tossing wood in the fireplace and lighting it up, take the time to investigate all vents and flue operation to make sure cold air can’t get in and soot and smoke from a fire can’t get out. Keep in mind that some animals like birds like to make homes in chimneys; be sure yours is clear before starting a fire.
Check Your Water Heater
When was the last time you drained and cleaned your water heater? When the weather gets chilly, it’s much harder to heat your water, which means that it’s important for your water heater to be in good working condition. If you haven’t serviced your water heater recently, now may be the time to drain your water heater and clear out any debris. If you aren’t sure your water heater is performing up to par, bringing in a professional may be an asset.
Inspect Your Roof
If you have a heavy rainstorm or a foot of snow, can your roof take the burden? Before settling in for another chilly fall and a freezing winter, take a look at your roof for weak spots, cracks in your shingles, granules, and wind damage. If you see anything that looks off or unstable, a roofer may be what your home needs to weather this winter’s storms.
Preparing your house for fall may be a hassle, but it’s one you’ll thank yourself for later. With the right measures taken now, you and your family will be prepared to settle in for the fall and winter, no matter what may be coming your way. To find local businesses you can trust, visit us at bbb.org or call (843) 766-9616 • (803) 254-2525.
