End of Summer Home Tips

With Labor Day already well past, we begin to prepare for the end of this season and the beginning of the fall.  As we start the seasonal transition, here are some important tips for homeowners to consider:

• Get the Humidity Out – As the humidity begins to lessen, you should put a dehumidifier in any areas of your home that may be prone to mold or mildew buildup.  If you haven’t been doing this all summer long (which is recommended), definitely use these last few weeks to ward off any extra dangerous spores from attacking the air in your basement.
• TLC for Your Patio Furniture – While you may still use your outdoor patio furniture throughout the first months of fall, you’ll still want to give any outdoor furniture a good wash down and scrubbing before bringing them in for the winter. Whether you do this in September or November, this is a task that needs to be done to prolong the appearance and functionality of your furniture.
• Clear debris from your outdoor condenser unit - If you haven’t checked it all summer, the right time is now. Wind, storms, bugs and summer activities like mowing the lawn can cause all types of debris to build up on your unit and restrict its airflow. Make sure to clear any visible debris away and consider cleaning the unit with a brush or vacuum.
• Schedule preventive maintenance for your furnace - The end of summer and the beginning of fall is the perfect time to begin thinking about getting your annual furnace maintenance. This will ensure that your furnace is ready for winter and will prevent it from breaking down in the middle of the season… plus your local HVAC company tends to be less busy at this time.
• Fireplaces – Before the first fire of the fall, be sure to have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional. This will help eliminate the chance of buildup or chimney fires.
• Look for Leaks – There may be some errant leaks around your home, especially in the bathroom areas. Check your toilets, showers and sinks, for leaks. No matter how small, such plumbing problems can quickly grow into major problems in the future. Leaks in your home’s insulation are also a possibility, which can cause frozen pipes and higher heating costs in the dead of winter. Get these fixed.
• Paint and Carpet – If you’re planning to do any interior painting, carpet cleaning or carpet replacement, now is a great time to tackle these projects while the weather is still mild and you can keep your windows open for ventilation.