As fall has just arrived – here are a few tips to prepare your home for the winter:
Gutters – clean to extend the life of the gutters and keep the basement/crawlspace dry
Heating system – service before turning on to protect the equipment
Gas fireplace – service with other gas appliances; include fireplace in service plan
Outdoor hose bibs – shut off unless they are frost free to prevent freezing damage to pipes
Hot water heating systems – bleed radiators to remove air so the radiators will keep the house warm
Hot water heating systems – lubricate the circulating pump as needed to extend its life
Humidifier connected to furnace – turn on and open the water supply so that the humidifier will work in the heating season
Humidifiers and central air conditioners – open the damper on the humidifier bypass to allow the humidifier to work in the heating season
Electric baseboard heaters – vacuum to remove dust to increase the efficiency and reduce the risk of fire
Sump pump – test to make sure it will operate when needed, to avoid flooding
Catch basins – test and clean out debris if needed – to make sure they will carry water away
Exterior vents – ensure vent flaps close properly to reduce heat loss and prevent pest entry
