Use some of Calgary’s gorgeous fall weekends to get your home ready for winter. Here are 5 things you can do in an afternoon that will help your home weather the upcoming winter storms.
1. Caulk windows and doors. This helps prevent heat from escaping your home. Caulking can be easily done by new and experienced homeowners. Everything you need to caulk your home is available at your local hardware store.
2. Turn off the exterior water and put away garden hoses. Turning off your exterior water before the snow flies will help to protect your pipes from freezing and breaking. Be sure to leave the exterior taps open. Tuck your garden hose away so that it doesn’t crack during the winter months.
3. Have the furnace cleaned and inspected. Many homeowners forget about regular furnace maintenance until it stops working on a cold January night! Have a professional clean and inspect your furnace in October to ensure it is in good condition. Remember to keep extra furnace filters on hand and change them regularly throughout the year.
4. Check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. This is a great to-do that should be on every fall maintenance checklist! This is especially important for homes that have any gas appliances, wood-burning stoves, and fireplaces.
5. Winter proof your air conditioning unit. If you have an air conditioning unit installed in one of your windows, remove it and store it somewhere protected from the elements. If you have an exterior unit installed alongside your home, cover it with a weatherproof cover.
These are just five quick fall maintenance tips that every homeowner can find time to do. If you want a full checklist to help you prepare your home for winter, check out these resources!
Rona Exterior Home Maintenance Checklist
Real Simple Fall Cleaning Checklist
This Old House Annual DIY Inspection
Do you have a must-do fall home maintenance chore? Leave a comment for me on Twitter and remind other homeowners to add it to their to-do list!